Miguel Uribe Turbay Dies After Bogota Rally Shooting: Colombian Presidential Hopeful Assassinated

Colombian politics has been shaken by the death of Miguel Uribe Turbay, a 39-year-old senator and potential presidential candidate, who succumbed to injuries sustained in a brutal attack during a public rally in Bogota. Uribe, a member of the right-wing Democratic Center party, was shot on June 7, 2025, in what authorities believe was a meticulously planned assassination. The attack left him with multiple gunshot wounds, including two to the head, ultimately leading to his death in August, as confirmed by his family.

Uribe’s killing marks one of the most significant political assassinations in recent Colombian history, raising fears about escalating violence ahead of the 2026 presidential election.

Who Was Miguel Uribe Turbay?

Miguel Uribe Turbay was a prominent Colombian senator and rising political figure known for his outspoken opposition to certain policies of President Gustavo Petro’s administration. Born into a politically influential family, Uribe had announced in October 2024 his intention to run in the 2026 presidential race, positioning himself as a strong contender from the Democratic Center party.

Throughout his career, Uribe advocated for economic reforms, public safety measures, and anti-corruption initiatives. His leadership style and clear political stance earned him both passionate supporters and fierce critics. The assassination has left a vacuum in the opposition camp and intensified concerns about the security of public figures in Colombia.

How Did the Attack on Miguel Uribe Turbay Happen?

On June 7, 2025, Uribe was addressing supporters during a campaign-style rally in Bogota when he was ambushed by armed assailants. Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots before chaos erupted. The senator was struck three times, twice in the head and once in the body.

Colombian police later revealed that the attack was carried out by a group of hired killers, including a 15-year-old alleged hitman. The operation was allegedly masterminded by Elder Jose Arteaga Hernandez, a career criminal with a record extending to Interpol. According to police chief Carlos Fernando Triana Beltran, Hernandez planned “the before of the attack, the during, and the after,” orchestrating every stage of the assassination.

Authorities reported that the crime was allegedly contracted for around $250,000, with Hernandez recruiting and arming the shooter. In July, five suspects, including the teenage gunman, were taken into custody.

Why Miguel Uribe Turbay’s Death Matters for Colombia’s Future

Uribe’s assassination comes at a critical time in Colombian politics. The 2026 presidential election is expected to be highly competitive, with deep divisions between right-wing opposition forces and the current leftist government. The murder raises urgent questions about the ability of the state to protect candidates and maintain democratic integrity in an environment where political violence remains a persistent threat.

Security experts warn that political assassinations can have a chilling effect on democratic participation, discouraging leaders from running for office and weakening public trust in institutions. The killing of Uribe also highlights Colombia’s long-standing struggles with organized crime, contract killings, and politically motivated violence.

What’s Next in the Investigation?

While arrests have been made, authorities continue to investigate potential political or financial motivations behind the killing. Colombian Defense Minister Pedro Sanchez stated that investigators are exploring whether the attack was part of a broader effort to destabilize the electoral process.

Security measures for other high-profile politicians are now under review, with calls for increased protection of candidates in public spaces. The trial of the suspects, including the alleged teenage shooter and mastermind Hernandez, is expected to be closely watched both nationally and internationally.

You Must Know:

Q1: Who was Miguel Uribe Turbay?
Miguel Uribe Turbay was a Colombian senator, member of the Democratic Center party, and declared candidate for the 2026 presidential election.

Q2: When was Miguel Uribe Turbay shot?
He was attacked on June 7, 2025, during a rally in Bogota, suffering multiple gunshot wounds.

Q3: Who is accused of planning the assassination?
Authorities accuse Elder Jose Arteaga Hernandez, a career criminal with an Interpol record, of orchestrating the attack.

Q4: How much was the attack allegedly contracted for?
According to the Colombian Defense Ministry, the hit was allegedly negotiated for around $250,000.

Q5: Why is his death significant?
His assassination could influence Colombia’s 2026 election, deepen political divides, and heighten security concerns for public officials.

Q6: Have there been arrests in the case?
Yes, five suspects, including a 15-year-old alleged hitman, have been arrested.