Man admits he dumped gas on Danville councilman, set him on fire to kill him, court documents say
DANVILLE, Va. (WTVD) -- New details were released, the day after a Danville City Council member was doused in gasoline and set on fire in what appeared to be a personal feud, the Danville Police Department said.
Police said the two men knew each other and it appeared the attack stemmed from a personal matter and was not politically motivated.
The councilman is identified as Lee Vogler, 38, and the suspect has been identified as Shotsie Michael Buck Hayes, 29, of Danville.
Officers responded around 11:30 a.m. Wednesday to the 700 block of Main Street for a report of a man being set on fire.
Vogler was airlifted to a regional medical facility for treatment. The full extent of his injuries is not yet known, police said.
Witnesses told police a man went into Vogler's workplace, confronted him and poured gas on him. Both men ran out of the building and the suspect set Vogler on fire before running away.
Acting on information from those witnesses, police found the vehicle several blocks away and took the driver into custody.
Buck-Hayes is charged with attempted first-degree murder and aggravated malicious wounding.
During an interview with police, Buck-Hayes admitted that he had dumped gasoline onto Vogler and that "it was his intention to kill Vogler," according court documents obtained by ABC News during his court appearance on Thursday.
He remains in the Danville City Jail under no bond.
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Thursday, Vogler's wife, Blair, released this statement to Southside News in Danville.
"On behalf of our family, I want to extend our deepest gratitude to the Danville Life Saving Crew, Danville Fire Department, and Danville Police Department for their swift action, compassion, and professionalism during a time of crisis. 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."
"Lee has dedicated over a decade of his life to serving the people of Danville. I have seen firsthand the tireless work, the late nights, and the unwavering commitment he brings to every decision he makes. He doesn't take his responsibilities lightly-he carries the weight of this city's hopes and challenges with sincerity, humility, and resolve."
"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."
We are incredibly thankful for the outpouring of support from the community. At this time, we kindly ask for privacy as he continues to heal"
According to the City of Danville, Vogler was elected to the city council in May 2012 when he was 24, becoming the youngest person ever elected to that position. Besides his council duties, Vogler is managing partner for Andrew Brooks Media Group.
Vogler was appointed by Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin to the Virginia Small Business Commission in 2022.
Wednesday's incident remains under investigation.
