Danville City Council Member Victimized in Violent Workplace Assault

DANVILLE, Va. -- A city council member in Danville, Virginia, sustained serious injuries following a shocking incident at his workplace on Wednesday. Lee Vogler, 38, was attacked by a man who entered his office at a local magazine, poured gasoline on him, and ignited it, resulting in severe burns.

The assailant, identified as 29-year-old Shotsie Michael Buck Hayes, reportedly forced his way into Vogler's office at Showcase Magazine and confronted him. Witnesses indicated that the confrontation escalated as Vogler managed to flee outside while calling for help, but Hayes pursued him and ignited the gasoline.

Hayes was apprehended at the scene and now faces charges including attempted first-degree murder and aggravated malicious wounding. Law enforcement officials have stated that the motive for the attack appears to be personal rather than politically motivated, highlighting an alarming trend of violence against public officials.

Andrew Scott Brooks, the publisher of Showcase Magazine, condemned the act of violence, emphasizing that there is no justification for such behavior. Two employees were present in the building during the incident, and Brooks recounted the chaos that ensued as Vogler emerged from his office, covered in gasoline, pleading for assistance.

"Our door is locked. They forced their way into the office and went to Lee. The next thing, Lee is running through the office covered in gasoline, yelling for our officemate to call 911," Brooks said.

Currently, Hayes is being held without bond at the Danville City Jail. There has been no immediate response from his legal representatives regarding his defense.

Showcase Magazine is a publication focused on the southwestern regions of Virginia and North Carolina, operating from a shared two-story building with other businesses in Danville. In the aftermath of the attack, local officials and politicians across Virginia have expressed their outrage and concern.

"Our prayers go out to Danville City Councilman Lee Vogler who was violently attacked at his workplace earlier today," stated Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin, emphasizing a desire for Vogler's swift recovery and peace for the community.

Brooks mentioned that there had been no prior indications of Vogler feeling unsafe at work or elsewhere. Vogler is not only a city council member but also a salesperson for the magazine, contributing to various aspects of its operation, including writing articles about local community issues.

"His passion is being on the city council. He loves when people call him with concerns that he can help them with, and he has been an asset to the community for much of his adult life," Brooks remarked.

Outside of his professional commitments, Vogler is known for his dedication as a parent, actively coaching his children's sports teams. Danville is located approximately 140 miles north of Charlotte, North Carolina.