Colombian Senator Miguel Uribe Turbay Dies Two Months After Assassination Attempt
Colombia was left reeling on August 7, 2025, as news spread of the passing of Senator Miguel Uribe Turbay, who succumbed to his injuries two months after being shot in an attempted assassination during a campaign rally in Bogotá on June 7. The 39-year-old politician, who was a presidential hopeful and had been a senator since 2022, left behind a legacy of public service and a nation in mourning.
Life of Public Service and Sacrifice
Born in 1986 to a prominent family with Lebanese immigrants, Uribe Turbay was the grandson of former President Julio César Turbay Ayala. He held a law degree and a master’s in public policy from the University of the Andes and a master’s in public administration from Harvard Kennedy School. Uribe Turbay was a member of the Democratic Centre party and was seeking the party’s nomination for the 2026 presidential election.
Nation in Mourning
Uribe Turbay’s assassination sent shockwaves throughout the country, with many expressing outrage and sadness at the loss of a prominent figure in Colombian politics. His wife, María Claudia Tarazona, thanked him for a life full of love and being the best father to their children, according to reports. The Democratic Centre party, of which Uribe Turbay was a member, has been a significant force in Colombian politics for decades.
Key Points
Miguel Uribe Turbay was a Colombian politician who served as a member of the Senate of Colombia since 2022.
He was shot in an attempted assassination during a rally in Bogotá on June 7, 2025, and died two months later.
Uribe Turbay was born in 1986 to a prominent family with Lebanese immigrants and was the grandson of former president Julio César Turbay Ayala.
He held a law degree and a master’s in public policy from the University of the Andes and a master’s in public administration from Harvard Kennedy School.
Uribe Turbay was married to María Claudia Tarazona and had a law degree.
He was a member of the Democratic Centre party and was seeking the party’s nomination for the 2026 presidential election.
Uribe Turbay was shot three times, reportedly twice in the head, and was taken to the hospital in critical condition.
The suspect, a 14-year-old boy, was detained and authorities believed he was a contract killer hired by others.
A Legacy of Public Service and Sacrifice
As Colombia mourns the loss of Senator Miguel Uribe Turbay, the nation is left to wonder what could have been if he had lived to fulfill his political ambitions. His legacy will live on, however, as a reminder of the importance of public service and the sacrifices made by those who seek to serve the public.
Miguel Uribe Turbay was a Colombian politician who served as a member of the Senate of Colombia since 2022. He was shot in an attempted assassination during a rally in Bogotá on June 7, 2025, and died two months later. Uribe Turbay was a presidential hopeful and had been a senator since 2022. He was a member of the Democratic Centre party and was seeking the party's nomination for the 2026 presidential election. The suspect, a 14-year-old boy, was detained and authorities believed he was a contract killer hired by others. Uribe Turbay was a prominent figure in Colombian politics, and his assassination sent shockwaves throughout the country.
FAQs
Who is Miguel Uribe Turbay?
Miguel Uribe Turbay was a prominent Colombian politician and senator, a member of the conservative Centro Democrático party, and a leading voice in the 2026 presidential race. He previously served on Bogotá’s City Council and as Secretary of Government under Mayor Enrique Peñalosa. An Ivy League graduate, he was known for his commitment to public service, strong views on national security, and familial political legacy. He was the grandson of former President Julio César Turbay Ayala.
Who was the suspect in Miguel Uribe Turbay’s assassination?
The shooter was a 15-year-old boy arrested immediately at the scene, armed with a 9mm Glock-style pistol. Authorities later apprehended Elder José Arteaga Hernández known as “El Costeño” who is considered the alleged mastermind behind the attack. Investigations revealed the minor acted for monetary gain, believed to be orchestrated by a criminal.
What is the impact of Miguel Uribe Turbay’s assassination on Colombian politics?
The attack has reignited fears of a return to Colombia’s violent political past and sparked national calls for improved candidate security and bipartisan unity. It intensified political polarization, as leaders across the spectrum condemned the attempt, and the government renewed its focus on safeguarding democratic participation. The tragedy also raised urgent questions about rising political violence heading into the 2026 elections
