On June 7, 2025, Colombia was shaken by a violent assassination attempt on Senator Miguel Uribe Turbay, a prominent political figure and potential presidential candidate whose career is closely followed both nationally and by the expat community. This attack not only threatens his life but also raises critical questions about Colombia’s political stability and security. Understanding who Uribe Turbay is, the details of the attack, the swift response by authorities, and the broader implications for Colombia’s political landscape and international image is essential for anyone invested in the country’s future.
Who Is Senator Miguel Uribe Turbay and What Happened in the Attack That Shook Colombia?
Miguel Uribe Turbay, born in Bogotá in 1986, is a prominent political figure with deep roots in Colombia’s political and journalistic history. He is the grandson of former President Julio César Turbay Ayala and the son of journalist Diana Turbay. Educated in law and public policy at the University of the Andes and Harvard, Uribe Turbay began his political career early, serving on Bogotá’s City Council and later as Secretary of Government under Mayor Enrique Peñalosa. Since 2022, he has served as a Senator for the Democratic Centre party, quickly becoming a leading voice in Colombia’s conservative opposition.
Senator Uribe Turbay has quickly established himself as a leading voice in the right-wing opposition, particularly within the Democratic Centre Party, and has openly declared his candidacy for the 2026 presidential election. His campaign focuses on national unity, security, and economic strengthening, positioning him as a major contender in Colombia’s upcoming electoral cycle.
However, on June 7, 2025, during a campaign rally at El Golfito Park in Bogotá’s Fontibón neighborhood, Uribe Turbay was the target of a brazen assassination attempt. While addressing supporters, he was shot multiple times, including in the head and chest, by a 15-year-old assailant who approached from behind. Thanks to the swift response of his security team and intervention by bystanders, the attacker was subdued and arrested on the spot.
Following the attack, Uribe Turbay was rushed to a nearby clinic and then airlifted to the Santa Fe Foundation hospital in Bogotá. He underwent multiple complex surgeries, including neurosurgical and vascular procedures to address brain hemorrhages and other critical injuries. As of early July 2025, his condition remains serious but stable.
Authorities responded swiftly and decisively, marking a notable improvement in Colombia’s handling of political violence. The teenage suspect was immediately detained, and a 9mm Glock-type firearm was seized at the scene. Investigations have since led to the arrest of three additional suspects, including a man and a woman involved in the logistics of the attack, as well as the alleged mastermind, Elder José Arteaga Hernández, known as “El Costeño.” Arteaga, with a criminal record spanning over 20 years, was arrested in northwest Bogotá and faces multiple charges, including attempted aggravated homicide and using minors to commit crimes.
What Are the Latest Developments in the Investigation of the Attack on Senator Miguel Uribe Turbay?
The investigation into the June 7 attack on Senator Miguel Uribe Turbay continues to develop rapidly, with Colombian authorities making significant progress in identifying and prosecuting those involved. Recent news highlights both the arrests made and the legal maneuvers of the alleged mastermind behind the attack.
According to the Colombian National Police, the investigation has uncovered that the attack was orchestrated with a budget exceeding one billion Colombian pesos (approximately $230,000 USD), underscoring the operation’s complexity and premeditation. However, police have maintained confidentiality regarding specific details about the suspect known as “El Costeño”, the alleged mastermind behind the assassination attempt.
El Costeño, whose real name is Elder José Arteaga Hernández, was arrested in early July in Bogotá. Despite the mounting evidence, he has publicly declared his innocence before the Attorney General’s Office, denying involvement in the attack during his initial hearing
Police Chief Carlos Fernando Triana emphasized the seriousness of the case on social media, highlighting charges against El Costeño including attempted aggravated homicide, arms trafficking, and exploitation of minors for criminal activities. The suspect’s criminal record spans over two decades, and his arrest marks a crucial step in dismantling the network behind the attack.
How Does the Attack on Miguel Uribe Turbay Compare to Other Political Violence Cases in Colombia?
To truly understand the significance of the attack on Senator Miguel Uribe Turbay, it helps to place it within Colombia’s complex history of political violence.
Colombia’s history is marked by violence against political leaders, especially presidential candidates. Some of the most notorious cases include:
Luis Carlos Galán (1989)
Liberal Party frontrunner assassinated at a campaign rally, a crime linked to drug cartels.
Bernardo Jaramillo Ossa (1990)
Patriotic Union candidate killed at Bogotá’s airport.
Carlos Pizarro Leongómez (1990)
Former M-19 guerrilla leader and presidential hopeful, murdered on an Avianca flight.
These attacks, often orchestrated by cartels or armed groups, led to national trauma and a sense of impunity, as investigations were frequently slow or compromised.
While Colombia continues to grapple with the broader trend of political violence, the response to the attack on Miguel Uribe Turbay marks a clear shift. In decades past, investigations into political assassinations were often slow, hampered by corruption, or obstructed by powerful criminal networks.
In this case, however, authorities acted swiftly and decisively. Within days, the teenage suspect and additional accomplices were identified and arrested, and the Attorney General’s Office launched a high-level investigation. This rapid, coordinated, and transparent approach signals improved institutional strength and a renewed commitment to justice — a hopeful sign for both Colombians and expats concerned about security.
Understanding the realities on the ground and following practical safety guidelines can make all the difference in ensuring a secure and enjoyable experience while living or traveling in Colombia
Emergency Guides to Ensure Your Safety in Colombia
Safety in Colombia is a crucial concern for foreigners, and the country has made great strides in recent years to improve its security. The Emergency Directory Guides by Medellin Guru are an excellent resource for any foreigner visiting Colombia, offering peace of mind and ensuring that visitors are well-informed and prepared in an emergency.
Foreigners visiting Colombia are encouraged to download these guides and have them handy during their stay. With the help of these guides, visitors can enjoy their time in Colombia without worrying about their safety. The Colombia Emergency Directory and the Safety Guide for US Citizens in Colombia are testaments to the platform’s commitment to providing valuable information to its users and making their experience in Colombia as enjoyable and safe as possible.
The Bottom Line: Everything About the Attempt on Colombian Senator Miguel Uribe Turbay
For expats living in Colombia, particularly here in Medellín, staying informed about major political events like the attack on Senator Miguel Uribe Turbay is more than just keeping up with the news. It’s about understanding the political climate that shapes our daily lives and how it affects those of us who call this country home. While the situation remains serious, our goal is to provide a clear context without causing unnecessary alarm. Keeping tabs on Colombia’s evolving political landscape through trustworthy sources helps expats navigate these complex moments and feel more connected to their surroundings. After all, understanding these events is part of what makes Medellín feel at home.
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