Colombian opposition senator and presidential candidate Miguel Uribe Turbay is reportedly in critical condition after being shot three times, twice in the head, during a campaign rally in Bogotá on Saturday night, June 7, 2025.
The 39-year-old candidate, representing the right-wing Centro Democrático party, was addressing a small group of supporters at a public park when an unknown assailant opened fire. According to authorities, a 15-year-old suspect was apprehended at the scene. The motive for the attack remains unknown.
Uribe was immediately airlifted to Santa Fe Clinic, where he underwent emergency surgery for severe gunshot wounds to the skull and knee. Doctors have described his condition as “grave” and say he remains under intensive medical care.
His wife, Maria Claudia Tarazona, made an emotional plea to the public:
“Miguel is currently fighting for his life. Let us ask God to guide the hands of the doctors who are treating him.”
International Condemnation
The assassination attempt has sparked outrage across Colombia and internationally. The Colombian government under President Gustavo Petro condemned the attack as
“an assault not only against Miguel Uribe but against democracy itself.”
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also reacted, labeling the shooting as
“a direct threat to democracy in Colombia.”
A Legacy Touched by Violence
Uribe comes from a notable political family. His mother, journalist Diana Turbay, was killed in 1991 during a failed rescue attempt after being kidnapped by Pablo Escobar’s Medellín cartel.
His political party, founded by former President Álvaro Uribe, issued a statement strongly denouncing the attack:
“This is an assault that endangers democracy and freedom in Colombia.”
Growing Vigil and Public Concern
Following the attack, footage of the shooting quickly spread online, showing the moment Uribe collapsed mid-speech as supporters fled in panic. Outside Santa Fe Clinic, dozens of citizens have gathered in vigil, praying and chanting for the senator’s survival and recovery.
The incident has intensified concerns over political violence in Colombia, especially with the country’s presidential elections approaching.