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Jeff Johnson, the Republican contender for governor in Minnesota, has withdrawn from the race following the tragic death of his 22-year-old daughter, Hallie Marie Tobler, who was fatally stabbed.
According to Just the News, police in St. Cloud discovered Tobler’s body on Saturday in her secured apartment while responding to a medical emergency call.
The report indicates that her husband, Dylan Michale Tobler, aged 23, was also found at the scene with injuries that appeared to be self-inflicted. Authorities have identified him as the primary suspect in his wife’s murder. He is currently under police supervision, receiving medical treatment at St. Cloud Hospital, and will be transferred to jail once he recovers.
On Monday, the Minnesota Republican Party issued a statement extending their sympathies to Johnson and his family.
“Words cannot convey the depth of our sorrow for Jeff and his loved ones,” the statement expressed. “The heartbreak of losing a child is beyond comprehension, and our thoughts and prayers are with them during this profoundly difficult time.”
“There are no words that can adequately express the sorrow we feel for Jeff and his family,” the statement reads. “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,” the party announced. “We ask all Minnesotans to join us in lifting up the Johnson family during this incredibly painful time.”
Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), who is running for the governor’s seat, also expressed her condolences in a post on X.
“My condolences to Jeff Johnson and his entire family for the loss of their daughter on Saturday night. [My husband] and I are praying for all those who loved her during this unimaginably difficult time,” she said.
Minnesota state Rep. Kristin Robbins, who was running against Johnson in the Republican primary, said she is “heartbroken for Jeff & his family over this horrifying tragedy.”
“I can’t imagine their grief. Please join Brent & me in praying for Jeff & his family. May God be their refuge & strength in the days ahead,” she said.