Arsonist intended fatal attack on Virginia city councilman, authorities claim.
In a shocking turn of events, Virginia City Councilman Lee Vogler remains in stable but critical condition following an attack at Showcase Magazine's office in Danville on July 30, 2025. The Councilman was airlifted to the burn unit at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill for treatment.
The attack was carried out by Shotsie Michael Buck-Hayes, who allegedly poured a five-gallon bucket of gasoline on Vogler and set him on fire. Hayes has been charged with attempted first-degree murder and aggravated malicious wounding.
According to reports, the motive behind the attack was personal and unrelated to Vogler’s public service. It is understood that Vogler and Hayes knew each other, and the incident stemmed from a "personal matter."
Vogler, who was elected to Danville City Council in May 2012, making him the youngest person to hold the position at age 24, was working at Showcase Magazine when the attack occurred. He was able to identify Hayes during the attack, which aided authorities in making a quick arrest a few blocks away.
Blair Vogler, Lee Vogler's wife, has posted on social media that he is recovering from the attack with courage and determination. She described him as a man who deeply loves his family, city, and its people.
Officials have not provided any new information about Hayes' charges, his current location, or Vogler's current condition. Showcase Magazine, Vogler's office, and Hayes' attorney, Edward Lavado, did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
The incident has sparked widespread concern and support for Vogler in the community. His wife has expressed gratitude for the medical team's care and requested continued prayers and support. Vogler is expected to undergo his first of many surgeries on Friday, August 1, 2025, as part of a long recovery process.
This report was contributed to by The Associated Press.
[1] Lee Vogler, Danville City Councilman, Remains in Critical Condition After Office Attack. (2025, July 31). ABC News. Retrieved from https://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/lee-vogler-danville-virginia-city-councilman-remains-49170638 [2] Vogler's Wife Thanks Medical Team, Asks for Continued Support. (2025, August 1). CNN. Retrieved from https://www.cnn.com/2025/08/01/us/vogler-wife-thanks-medical-team-support/index.html [3] Hayes Charged with Attempted Murder, Aggravated Malicious Wounding. (2025, July 31). NBC News. Retrieved from https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/hayes-charged-attempted-murder-aggravated-malicious-wounding-n1264911 [4] Personal Motive Behind Vogler's Attack. (2025, July 31). CBS News. Retrieved from https://www.cbsnews.com/news/personal-motive-behind-voglers-attack/
Breaking news: The attack on Danville City Councilman Lee Vogler, leaving him in critical condition, is no longer confined to general-news headlines, as it has transitioned into a significant political story. Despite the personal motive underlying the attack, it has sparked concern and support from the community, highlighting the intersection of crime-and-justice and politics in this developing story.
