Cole County Circuit Judge candidate Brian Stumpe, a Republican, had told the Cole County Bar he might not make Wednesday night's candidates' debate. Wednesdays are busy nights in the Jefferson City Municipal Court, where Stumpe is the city's prosecutor.
But, with Wednesday's bad weather, court officials decided to end the Municipal Court docket early.
So, Stumpe said Thursday, he was planning to attend the meeting and make his presentation alongside incumbent Circuit Judge Pat Joyce, a Democrat, who's seeking a third term in the job.
And then his 9-year-old son fell and cut his head.
Stumpe skipped the Bar forum to help his son feel better, and reported on his Facebook page Thursday that the boy was doing well.
Those attending the Wednesday evening forum were told only that Stumpe had "indicated he's unable to make it this evening," without any further explanation.