Minnesota Governor Hopeful Grieves Loss of Daughter in Tragic Stabbing Incident

Jeff Johnson, a former Republican candidate for governor in Minnesota, has shared a poignant tribute to his daughter following her tragic death by stabbing.

His daughter, Hallie Marie Tobler, aged 22, was discovered with multiple stab wounds in her apartment on Saturday evening around 8:20 PM. Her husband, Dylan, was also found at the scene with critical injuries.

Authorities suspect that Dylan’s injuries were self-inflicted and believe he is responsible for Hallie’s death, as the couple was discovered inside a locked apartment.

In a heartfelt message on social media, Johnson’s family expressed their profound grief over Hallie’s “tragic and senseless” passing.

The family described Hallie as a “bright light” in their lives, recalling her as “kind, compassionate, and full of promise.”

‘The pain of losing her in this way is something no family should ever have to endure, and we are still struggling to comprehend this unimaginable reality,’ the statement read.

The grief-stricken family expressed gratitude for the overwhelming outpouring of love and support they have received.  

Hallie Marie Tobler, 22, was found fatally stabbed inside her apartment at around 8.20pm on Saturday

Hallie and her husband Dylan, 23, he also sustained life-threatening injuries. Officers believe his injuries were self-inflicted and that he is responsible for Hallie’s death

Dylan Tobler, Hallie Tobler, Julie Johnson, Elizabeth Johnson and Jeff Johnson in a family photo

‘Right now, our focus is on honoring Hallie’s memory and supporting all those whose lives she touched during this devastating loss.

‘We ask that everyone keep our daughter in their thoughts and remember her for the beautiful person she was,’ the statement said.

As of Sunday night, Dylan, 23, was reported in stable condition at St. Cloud Hospital, where he was in police custody.

The husband now faces a second-degree murder charge, according to documents obtained by the Daily Mail.

A witness checked on Hallie’s apartment on Saturday after she had not been heard from for four days, according to a criminal complaint obtained by PEOPLE.

According to the complaint, they knocked on the door for roughly 15 minutes before it was unlocked from inside. 

As they entered the home, the witness allegedly found Hallie’s lifeless body on the bathroom floor. 

The 22-year-old had sustained multiple stab wounds to her chest, upper back, neck, and head, per the complaint.

According to the witness, Dylan was found in the living room with stab wounds, apparently having tried to kill himself. 

When St. Cloud police officers arrived and asked what had happened, Dylan allegedly replied, ‘It’s a mess,’ per the report.

The family remembered Hallie as ‘kind, compassionate, and full of promise’ in their social media statement posted on Thursday

Hallie was the daughter of Jeff Johnson, a former St Cloud City Council member who was running for governor

Dylan now faces a second-degree murder charge, according to documents obtained by the Daily Mail

According to the complaint, Dylan told officers he thought he caused Hallie’s death and his own injuries. 

‘When asked what will happen next, the defendant stated “jail” and tapped himself on the chest,’ the complaint stated.

Johnson suspended his campaign on Monday and Republican party members shared their heartache with Hallie’s death.

‘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,’ they continued.

‘We ask all Minnesotans to join us in lifting up the Johnson family during this incredibly painful time.’