DANVILLE, VA – A Danville City Councilman is on a long road to recovery after surviving a harrowing attack this summer that left him with critical burn injuries across much of his body. The suspect in the case was ruled fit to face trial this week as new details about the councilman’s ordeal have come to light.
Lee Vogler, serving his community as a member of the city council, was reportedly at work in late July when his life changed forever. According to investigators, a man entered Vogler’s workplace, confronted him, and then doused him in gasoline before setting him on fire. The accused, Shotsie Buck-Hayes, 29, allegedly targeted Vogler due to personal suspicions regarding his own marriage, police documents state.
The attack was sudden, with coworkers recalling the chaos and fear that took over the scene. Colleagues described watching in horror as Vogler endured severe burns. One coworker witnessed the gas being poured and flames engulfing the councilman, while others scrambled to help. Vogler’s shirt had burned away, exposing deeply injured skin.
Emergency responders transported Vogler to the hospital, where doctors discovered he had suffered second- and third-degree burns on 60% of his body. In a desperate battle for survival, medical staff used healthy skin from other parts of his body to graft over the extensive wounds. Forty percent of his remaining uninjured skin was dedicated to this procedure.
The councilman also endured serious complications. According to updates provided later, he developed burn shock and infection, putting his life at further risk. His lungs showed burns, compounding his recovery and leading to a period where his family was warned that his prognosis was uncertain.
In the weeks that followed, Vogler underwent numerous surgeries and physical therapy sessions. He faced daily pain and the uncertainty of permanent disability, as the scarring and grafts limited his mobility. Vogler acknowledged the emotional and physical toll of the recovery process, explaining that the injuries required constant stretching and therapy.
Despite the trauma, Vogler returned to his city council duties, determined to serve the city of Danville. He shared that during the immediate aftermath, he feared he would not survive, particularly on the ambulance ride to the hospital.
Police claim the attack was motivated by Buck-Hayes’s mistaken belief that an affair was taking place. Authorities allege that Buck-Hayes purchased gasoline before arriving at Vogler’s workplace and confronting him with the deadly intent to cause harm.
Following a psychological evaluation, Buck-Hayes has been ruled competent for trial. He faces serious charges, including attempted first-degree murder, aggravated malicious wounding, and armed breaking and entering with intent to commit murder. Buck-Hayes remains in custody without bond as the judicial process continues.
A trial date has yet to be established. Meanwhile, the Danville community continues to rally around Vogler, offering support as he perseveres through his recovery.