Republican Minnesota gubernatorial candidate Jeff Johnson has suspended his campaign following the death of his 22-year-old daughter, Hallie Marie Tobler, who was found fatally stabbed in her St. Cloud apartment Saturday night, authorities confirmed.
According to St. Cloud police, officers responded to a medical emergency call at an apartment on 40th Avenue South at approximately 8:20 p.m. on February 7. Upon arrival, first responders found Tobler deceased from multiple stab wounds.
Police said her husband, Dylan Tobler, 23, was also found inside the locked apartment with life-threatening injuries that investigators believe were self-inflicted. He was transported to St. Cloud Hospital, where he was reported to be in stable condition and in police custody as of Sunday night. Formal charges are pending as the investigation continues.
Authorities have indicated they believe Dylan Tobler is responsible for Hallie Tobler's injuries and death, though the case remains under active investigation. The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension is assisting local law enforcement.
Following the tragedy, the Republican Party of Minnesota announced that Johnson would suspend his campaign for governor.
"There are no words that can adequately express the sorrow we feel for Jeff and his family," party officials said in a statement. "The loss of a child is unimaginable, and our thoughts and prayers are with them as they grieve this devastating tragedy. Out of respect for his family and the enormity of this loss, Jeff has suspended his campaign for governor of Minnesota."
Party leaders also asked Minnesotans to keep the Johnson family in their prayers during what they described as an "incredibly painful time."
Johnson, a former St. Cloud City Council member, had been seeking the Republican nomination for governor in 2026 in a crowded primary field. Before suspending his campaign, he was among several candidates competing for the party's nomination.
Leaders from across Minnesota's political community, including both Republican and Democratic officials, shared condolences and messages of support for the Johnson family following the news.
Officials have not released additional details about the case as investigators continue gathering evidence and preparing potential charges.
Leaders from across Minnesota's political community, representing both Republican and Democratic parties, shared condolences and messages of support for the Johnson family following the heartbreaking news.
As the investigation continues, authorities have not released additional details. Community leaders and supporters have continued to ask for prayers, comfort, and privacy for the Johnson family as they navigate this unimaginable loss.
