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Virginia city councilmember set on fire; suspect in custody in connection with the attack, police say

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Original Story by CNN
July 30, 2025
Virginia city councilmember set on fire; suspect in custody in connection with the attack, police say

Context:

A suspect is in custody after Danville City Councilman J. Lee Vogler was set on fire at his workplace by a man known to him. The attacker, identified as Shotsie Michael Buck Hayes, allegedly entered Vogler's office with a bucket of gasoline, doused him, and set him on fire. This incident is linked to a personal matter unrelated to Vogler's political position. After the attack, Hayes fled the scene, but witnesses provided descriptions that led to his apprehension. Andrew Brooks, a colleague of Vogler, condemned the act of violence, emphasizing the need for an end to such senseless acts.

Dive Deeper:

  • Danville Councilman J. Lee Vogler was attacked at his workplace by a man he knows, who poured gasoline on him and set him on fire. The incident occurred in the office of Showcase Magazine, where Andrew Brooks is the publisher.

  • The attacker, identified as Shotsie Michael Buck Hayes, confronted Vogler with a 5-gallon bucket of gasoline. After dousing Vogler with the flammable liquid, the suspect set him on fire before fleeing the scene.

  • Witnesses were able to provide police with a description of Hayes and his vehicle, aiding in his subsequent apprehension. Vogler himself was able to identify his alleged attacker.

  • The motive for the attack is reported to stem from a personal dispute not related to Vogler's role on the Danville City Council or any political matters.

  • Andrew Brooks publicly condemned the attack, emphasizing the irrationality of resorting to violence over personal grievances and calling for an end to such senseless acts in society.

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