Dr. Jeff Johnson suspends gubernatorial campaign after daughter was stabbed to death in St. Cloud

ST. CLOUD (KVRR/FOX9) —  Dr. Jeff Johnson has suspended his campaign for governor of Minnesota after the shocking death of his daughter.

Police say 22-year-old Hallie Tobler was stabbed and killed by her husband in an apartment in St. Cloud on Saturday night.

He was injured by what police believe were self-inflicted stab wounds.

Hallie died at the scene while her husband is being treated for his injuries.

The Republican party announced that Johnson decided to suspend his campaign out of respect for his family.

Jeff served on St. Cloud City Council in 2010.

He ran unopposed and was re-elected in 2014.

In 2020, he was unsuccessful in his bid for a Stearns County Commissioner seat against a 29-year incumbent. He lost by less than 400 votes.

Minnesota Republican Party statement: “There are no words that can adequately express the sorrow we feel for Jeff and his family. 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. We ask all Minnesotans to join us in lifting up the Johnson family during this incredibly painful time.

“We also extend our gratitude to the first responders and law enforcement officers involved and ask for patience and compassion as the investigation continues.”