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A man reportedly drenched a member of the Virginia city council in gasoline and set him on fire, with the intention of causing fatal harm, according to official documents.
Lee Vogler, a Danville City Council member, was attacked at his workplace, Showcase Magazine, where he serves as sales director. Shotsie Michael Buck Hayes allegedly entered the building, poured gasoline on Vogler, and ignited him, as reported by the Danville Police Department.
Vogler was able to identify Hayes during the attack, leading to a swift arrest a few blocks away after Hayes fled the scene, according to the police.
Hayes admitted to the police that he meant for Vogler to die in the fire, according to a report from the Associated Press, with court records initially reported by the Danville Register and Bee.
Shotsie Michael Buck-Hayes is accused of setting Danville, Va., Councilman Lee Vogler on fire on July 30, 2025. (Danville Police Department; @leevogler via Instagram)
Authorities stated that the incident between Vogler and Hayes was a result of a personal issue, unrelated to Vogler’s role on the Danville City Council or any political affiliations.
Hayes faces charges of attempted first-degree murder and aggravated malicious wounding, and he is currently held without bond in the Danville City Jail.
Vogler was transported to a regional medical facility for treatment, and his current condition remains unknown.
The alleged attempted murder happened at the Showcase Magazine building, where Danville, Va., Councilman Lee Vogler was working on July 30, 2025. (Google Maps)
Vogler was elected to the Danville City Council in 2012, becoming the youngest person to hold that position at 24 years old, according to the city’s website.
Vogler’s wife, Blair, shared on social media that her husband is bravely recovering from the attack with determination.
Virginia city councilman Lee Vogler was airlifted to the hospital after the attack. (@leevogler via Instagram)
“As anyone who knows him would expect, he is facing this challenge the same way he’s faced every obstacle in his life—with courage, determination, and an unbreakable spirit. Lee is a fighter,” Blair Vogler wrote. “As his wife, I’ve stood beside him through the highs and lows, and I can attest to the integrity with which he serves. Beyond the headlines and the public moments, there is a man who deeply loves his family, city, and its people.”
Showcase Magazine, Vogler’s workplace, and Hayes’ attorney, Edward Lavado, did not respond to requests for comment from Fox News Digital.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
