Arsonist torches Danville councilman by dousing him with gasoline, according to reports
On July 30, 2025, a shocking incident took place in Danville, Virginia, as City Councilman Lee Vogler was attacked and set on fire. The attack occurred around 11:30 a.m. on Main Street, at the office of Showcase Magazine, where Vogler works as a sales director.
According to reports, the suspect, Shotsie Michael Buck Hayes, allegedly followed Vogler and doused him with gasoline before setting him on fire. Vogler attempted to flee the attack and ran to the front of the building.
The suspect was quickly apprehended by police, who charged him with attempted first-degree murder and aggravated malicious wounding. Hayes, 29, is currently being held in the Danville City Jail without bond.
The attack on Vogler is reportedly unrelated to his status as an elected official. The police have stated that the incident stemmed from a personal matter.
The incident was first reported by Andrew Brooks, the owner of Showcase Magazine, who posted a video on social media about the attack. Brooks also confirmed that Vogler is being flown by helicopter to the UNC burn unit in Chapel Hill for further treatment.
In response to the attack, Danville Mayor Alonzo Jones released a statement, expressing concern and prayers for Vogler and his family. Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin also released a statement, offering prayers for a swift recovery for Vogler and peace for the Danville community.
As of the latest updates, the exact medical condition of Vogler remains undisclosed, but it is known that he sustained serious burn injuries. The investigation is still ongoing, with authorities continuing to gather more information and cooperate with Showcase Magazine.
The community is asked to keep Vogler and his family in their prayers during this difficult time. More updates will be provided when new information becomes available.
- Despite the attack on City Councilman Lee Vogler being unrelated to politics, Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin still offered prayers for a swift recovery for Vogler.
- The attack on Lee Vogler, a sales director at Showcase Magazine, was initially reported by its owner, Andrew Brooks, who posted about it on social media.
