Danville Councilman Attacked and Set on Fire in Personal Incident

A councilman in Danville, Virginia, was the victim of an attack on Wednesday. The incident involved the councilman being set on fire. Authorities have stated the attack was a "personal matter" and not related to his political position or affiliations.

The attack occurred at the offices of a local magazine where the councilman, Lee Vogler, is also employed. Police responded to a report of a man being set on fire around 11:30 am. Witnesses reported that the suspect entered the office, confronted Vogler, and doused him with a flammable liquid.

According to witnesses, both Vogler and the suspect then left the building. Outside, the suspect set Vogler on fire before fleeing the scene. Witnesses provided a description of the suspect and his vehicle to the police.

Police located and stopped the vehicle a few blocks away and took the driver into custody. The driver, identified as Shotsie Michael Buck Hayes, 29, of Danville, was identified as the suspect. The police confirmed that the victim and suspect knew each other, and the attack stemmed from a personal matter.

The extent of Vogler's injuries was unknown as of Wednesday afternoon. Emergency services, including the Danville Fire Department and the Danville Life Saving Crew, responded to the scene. Vogler was airlifted to a regional medical facility for treatment. The police department stated they would not release further details due to the ongoing investigation but that charge information would be forthcoming.

The news was initially reported by the publisher and owner of the magazine where the attack occurred. He described the suspect forcing his way into the office with gasoline, pouring it on Vogler, and then setting him on fire. The publisher reported that Vogler was conscious and talking and was being transported to a burn center.