Minnesota Republican gubernatorial candidate Jeff Johnson has suspended his campaign after his 22-year-old daughter, Hallie Marie Tobler, was fatally stabbed in St. Cloud earlier this month. Authorities say her husband, 23-year-old Dylan Tobler, has been charged with second-degree murder in connection with her death.

Police responded to the couple’s residence on Feb. 8 for what was reported as a “medical emergency” and found Hallie with multiple stab wounds. Dylan Tobler was also located at the scene with what investigators believe were self-inflicted injuries. Hallie was pronounced dead, and Dylan was later taken into custody. He is currently being held in the Stearns County Jail, according to authorities.

Johnson, a former St. Cloud City Council member who launched his bid for the Republican gubernatorial nomination in March, suspended his campaign in the days following the tragedy. The Minnesota Republican Party said he stepped away out of “respect for his family and the enormity of this loss,” adding, “The loss of a child is unimaginable, and our thoughts and prayers are with them as they grieve this devastating tragedy.”

This week, Johnson and his wife, Julie, issued their first public statement since their daughter’s killing, describing her as a young woman deeply loved by family and community.

“Hallie was a bright light in our lives and in the lives of so many others,” they wrote. “She was 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 couple also used their statement to highlight the importance of mental-health care in the wake of the violence.

“In the midst of this tragedy, we also want to acknowledge the importance of mental health support,” they wrote. “If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to a trusted professional, counselor, or local mental health service for help.”

The Johnsons asked for privacy and thanked the public for its support, saying their focus now is on remembering their daughter. “Right now, our focus is on honoring Hallie’s memory and supporting all those whose lives she touched during this devastating loss,” they said. “We ask that everyone keep our daughter in their thoughts and remember her for the beautiful person she was.”

Political leaders across Minnesota have also offered condolences. Sen. Amy Klobuchar, who is running for governor, said she and her husband were “praying for all those who loved her during this unimaginably difficult time.”

The killing has prompted an outpouring of sympathy across the state and renewed calls for prayer for the grieving family and community. Christians are encouraged to pray for comfort for Hallie’s loved ones, wisdom for authorities handling the case, and healing for all affected by the tragedy.

Heavenly Father, we lift up Jeff and Julie Johnson and all who loved Hallie. You are near to the brokenhearted, and we ask You to surround this family with Your comfort and peace. Hold them steady in their sorrow and carry them through the days ahead. We also pray for a community shaken by violence and loss, that You would bring healing, justice, and hope. In Jesus’ name, Amen.