Video: Colombian Senator and Presidential Candidate Miguel Uribe Shot in Head During Public Rally

A tragic incident unfolded at a campaign rally in Bogotá on Saturday, June 7, when Senator Miguel Uribe Turbay, a presidential candidate for 2026, was shot in the head and back while addressing his supporters. The 39-year-old member of the conservative Democratic Centre party, founded by former president Álvaro Uribe (to whom he is not related), was rushed to the hospital in critical condition. A suspect, believed to be a 15-year-old teenager, was taken into custody following the attack.

The assassination attempt occurred around 5:00 PM in a public park in the Fontibón/Modelia district. The assailants fired shots at Uribe from behind as he spoke from a temporary platform during the rally. Shocking video footage captured the moment Uribe fell to the ground, covered in blood, causing chaos among the crowd. Uribe’s bodyguards engaged in a brief exchange of gunfire with the attacker, resulting in at least one bystander being injured in the crossfire. Bogotá Mayor Carlos Galán confirmed the swift arrest of the suspect at the scene and promptly elevated the city’s medical network to red alert status to provide immediate care for Uribe. Colombian Defence Minister Pedro Sánchez announced that security forces would launch a thorough investigation, including pursuing any potential accomplices, and initiating a nationwide manhunt.

Miguel Uribe Turbay’s background is deeply rooted in Colombian history and personal tragedy. He is the son of the late journalist Diana Turbay, who was tragically kidnapped and murdered during a rescue attempt by Pablo Escobar’s Medellín cartel in 1991. This traumatic event has profoundly influenced Uribe’s political career. Additionally, his grandfather, Julio César Turbay Ayala, served as a former president of Colombia. The shocking attack on Uribe has sent shockwaves through Colombia’s political landscape, prompting President Gustavo Petro to express his condolences and solidarity with Uribe and his family during this challenging time.

The Colombian presidency has called for a comprehensive and thorough investigation into the assassination attempt on Senator Miguel Uribe. As Uribe continues to fight for his life in critical condition, the nation awaits answers and justice following this senseless act of violence. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks and dangers faced by public figures and political candidates in Colombia. In the wake of this tragic event, the country stands united in condemning violence and calling for peace and justice to prevail.