What started out as a regular Tuesday morning in the city of Danville, Virginia, quickly turned into a scene out of a nightmare.
One of the city’s own leaders, Councilman J. Lee Vogler, became the victim of a horrific and deeply personal attack inside an office building—an incident that has left the local community stunned and searching for answers.
Victim Targeted at Work in a Personal Grudge Attack
Councilman Vogler, 38, was at the Showcase Magazine office—a local publication he helps manage—when the suspect, identified by police as Shotsie Michael Buck Hayes, reportedly barged in just before noon.
According to the magazine’s owner, Andrew Brooks, Hayes was carrying a five-gallon container, which he emptied on Vogler before setting him on fire.
Authorities say this wasn’t politically motivated. Instead, they believe the motive was personal.
Vogler and Hayes knew each other, and police clarified that the incident was not tied to Vogler’s role in public office.
Divorce Filing Possibly Sparked the Deadly Encounter
As police began piecing together the motive, they revealed a potential source of tension: Hayes’ wife, Mary-Alice Buck-Hayes, had filed for divorce just two weeks earlier.
It’s unclear how Vogler was involved in the couple’s personal life, but the connection between the men appears to go beyond mere acquaintance.
According to witnesses, after dousing Vogler with gasoline, Hayes chased him to the front of the building before lighting the fuel.
The terrifying attack unfolded in full view of nearby workers and passersby.
Victim Airlifted with Severe Burns but Remains Alert
Though police haven’t released full details on the extent of Vogler’s injuries, Andrew Brooks confirmed that Vogler was “awake and talking” after the attack.
He was quickly airlifted to Central Lynchburg General Hospital for emergency treatment.
At the moment, his exact medical condition remains undisclosed, but the fact that he was conscious offers a sliver of hope in an otherwise grim event.
Quick Action by Witnesses Helps Police Track Down the Suspect
As Hayes fled the scene, quick-thinking witnesses gave officers a description of both the man and his vehicle.
That information helped authorities locate and arrest the suspect just blocks away, without further incident.
So far, police have only confirmed that charges are pending, and they have held off releasing more details, citing the ongoing investigation. Updates are expected in the coming days.
Business Owner Condemns Attack as Unthinkable
Andrew Brooks, who witnessed the aftermath, didn’t hold back his anger and sadness.
“This type of senseless act of violence has to stop,” he said, visibly shaken.
“You do not have the right to lash out and attempt to harm someone—especially not in this kind of brutal way.”
Vogler’s Legacy and Rise in Local Politics
J. Lee Vogler isn’t just any councilman—he made history in May 2012 by becoming the youngest person ever elected to Danville’s City Council at the age of 24.
A graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University with a degree in Political Science, he’s also a Managing Partner at Andrew Brooks Media Group, which runs Showcase Magazine.
Community Reeling as Police Prepare Formal Charges
This incident has left many in Danville shaken, especially those close to Vogler, who has spent over a decade serving his hometown.
As police work through the case and prepare to file formal charges against Hayes, residents are hoping for both justice and healing.
A Developing Story That’s Far From Over
This is still a breaking news situation. Authorities are expected to release more information soon—including possible charges and further details about the suspect’s motive.
In the meantime, the community is rallying around Vogler, hoping for his full recovery and an end to this kind of violence.