Virginia Councilman Set On Fire At Office Over ‘Personal Matter’, Attacker Arrested

Last Updated:July 31, 2025, 19:15 IST

Vogler, aged 38, was at work in his office at Showcase Magazine, a local media outlet based in Danville.

Vogler is now being treated at the burn unit of a hospital in Chapel Hill, North Carolina (Image: Instagram)

In a horrific and unexpected turn of events, a man poured petrol over a Virginia city councillor and set him on fire at his workplace on Wednesday, July 30, according to local police. Lee Vogler, a long-serving member of Danville City Council, is currently in critical condition in hospital.

Vogler, aged 38, was at work in his office at Showcase Magazine, a local media outlet based in Danville, near Greensboro, North Carolina, when the shocking attack occurred. According to the police, the suspect, identified as Shotsie Michael Buck Hayes, forced his way into the locked office building before launching the brutal assault.

After a brief verbal confrontation with Vogler, Hayes allegedly doused him in petrol and set him alight. Vogler was seen running through the office, shouting for help, and drenched in petrol. Two witnesses who were present at the time immediately called emergency services.

Hayes was arrested at the scene immediately after the incident. He has been charged with attempted first-degree murder and aggravated malicious wounding. He is currently being held at Danville City Jail without bail.

Initial investigations suggest that the attack may have stemmed from a personal dispute rather than political motives. The Associated Press reported that the incident does not appear to be politically motivated. Andrew Scott Brooks, publisher of Showcase Magazine, where Vogler worked as a salesperson and occasional contributor, condemned the attack, saying, “There is no justification for lashing out. This type of senseless violence needs to stop."

Brooks also noted that Vogler had not expressed any concerns for his personal safety prior to the attack.

Vogler is now being treated at the burn unit of a hospital in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. While details about his medical condition remain limited, officials have confirmed that he is in critical condition.

Vogler has been a dedicated public servant on the Danville City Council for over 12 years. He was first elected in 2012 at the age of 24, becoming the youngest person ever elected to the council. He is married and has two sons.

The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have yet to release further details surrounding the motive or method of entry into the secured office building.

Location :

Washington D.C., United States of America (USA)

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News world Virginia Councilman Set On Fire At Office Over ‘Personal Matter’, Attacker Arrested

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