Miguel Uribe Turbay, a prominent Colombian presidential candidate from the opposition Centro Democrático party, is in critical condition after being shot during a campaign rally in Villavicencio, Colombia, on Saturday.

His wife, María Claudia Tarazona, indicated that her husband requires "a miracle" to survive, as he has shown minimal response to medical treatments following major surgery over the weekend.

The incident has garnered significant attention as details emerge about the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

The Central Judicial Prosecutor's Office confirmed the arrest of a 15-year-old suspect, who was apprehended shortly after the shooting.

Evidence presented by authorities includes 129 video recordings and witness statements, along with the seizure of a 9mm pistol, which was reportedly purchased legally in Arizona in 2020.

Uribe was addressing a small audience in a park when gunfire erupted.

Eyewitness footage captured the aftermath, showing him slumped against the hood of a blood-splattered car.

Medical professionals later confirmed that Uribe had sustained two gunshot wounds, with the hospital's medical director, Adolfo Llinás Volpe, highlighting the severity of his condition.

The suspect, who allegedly stated, "I did it for money for my family," remains hospitalized following injuries sustained during the incident.

Due to his medical state, he has not yet been interrogated, and police have established a security cordon around the hospital where he is receiving care.

Authorities plan to charge him with attempted murder and illegal possession of a weapon.

Miguel Uribe Turbay, aged 39, comes from a prominent political lineage, being the grandson of former Colombian president Julio César Turbay Ayala and the son of journalist Diana Turbay, who was tragically killed after being kidnapped by Pablo Escobar's Medellín cartel in 1991. A graduate of Harvard University and a former Bogotá city councilor, Uribe has been outspoken in his criticism of the current administration led by President Gustavo Petro.

The president condemned the attack on Uribe and stated that all potential motives must be considered.

In Colombia, criminal organizations have a history of utilizing minors to execute violent acts.

In response to the shooting, Colombia's defense minister announced a reward of 3 billion pesos (approximately £540,000) for information that could lead to the identification and apprehension of those responsible for the attack.

The government has also mandated enhanced security measures for all candidates participating in the upcoming presidential election.