Colombian senator and would-be presidential candidate shot at campaign rally

BOGOTA, Colombia — Colombian Senator Miguel Uribe Turbay, a potential candidate in the upcoming presidential election, was injured in a shooting incident at a campaign event in Bogota on Saturday, according to authorities.

His party, the conservative Democratic Center, condemned the violence, calling it “an unacceptable act.”

The attack occurred in Fontibon neighborhood park, where unidentified gunmen shot Uribe Turbay from behind, as reported by the right-wing party founded by former President Alvaro Uribe, despite no familial relation between the two.

Images shared on social media depicted Uribe Turbay, visibly injured and bleeding, being assisted by bystanders. No official updates on his condition have been released thus far.

Bogotá Mayor Carlos Galán confirmed the apprehension of a suspect, while the federal government announced a reward for information leading to the capture of other individuals involved in the attack.

President Gustavo Petro emphasized the importance of valuing life and condemned the violence, prompting the cancellation of his scheduled trip to France due to the severity of the situation.

Uribe Turbay, a senator and the son of a slain journalist from the country’s tumultuous past, had announced his candidacy for the 2026 presidential election.

Following the incident, Colombian police chief Gen. Carlos Triana disclosed that Uribe Turbay was accompanied by Councilman Andrés Barrios and a group of individuals, leading to the apprehension of a minor involved in the attack.

Defense Minister Pedro Sánchez ordered security forces to swiftly investigate the matter and bring the perpetrators to justice.

Former President Uribe described the incident as an assault on the nation’s hope and praised Uribe Turbay as a valued member of society.