On Wednesday morning, July 30, 2025, Danville, Virginia City Councilman J. Lee Vogler, 38, was violently attacked and set ablaze at his workplace in what authorities describe as a targeted, personal assault, unrelated to his political duties (AP News).
At approximately 11:30 a.m., a man identified as 29‑year‑old Shotsie Michael Buck Hayes, a Danville resident known to Vogler, entered the offices of Showcase Magazine—part of the Andrew Brooks Media Group where Vogler works—and carried out a horrifying act. Witnesses say Hayes entered with a five‑gallon bucket of gasoline, poured the flammable liquid on Vogler, who tried to flee, and then chased him outside and ignited him in broad daylight (AP News).
Immediate Response and Arrest
Co-workers and bystanders immediately called 911. Vogler, severely burned, was treated by the Danville Fire Department and Danville Life Saving Crew before being airlifted to a burn unit in North Carolina—reports differ between Lynchburg and Chapel Hill, but all confirm he was transported to a regional burn center. Andrew Brooks, publisher and Vogler’s business partner, stated that Vogler was awake and able to identify his attacker during transport.
Meanwhile, Hayes fled the scene in a vehicle but was quickly located and detained by officers a few blocks away. He was arrested without incident and remains in custody at Danville City Jail, held without bond.
Charges and Investigation
Law enforcement has charged Hayes with attempted first‑degree murder and aggravated malicious wounding. The Danville Police stressed that investigators have identified a personal motive behind the attack, not linked to Vogler’s political affiliations or duties.
Authorities also clarified that Vogler and Hayes knew each other, and the confrontation stemmed from a private matter, not city council business or political activity. Police pledged further updates as the investigation progresses, including potential additional charges.
Vogler’s Background and Community Standing
Lee Vogler was first elected to the Danville City Council in May 2012, at just 24, making him the youngest individual ever elected to that position. Currently serving his fourth term (2025–2029), he is known for his dedication to economic development, small business advocacy, and workforce initiative. Professionally, he is the Managing Partner at Andrew Brooks Media Group, overseeing Showcase Magazine, a branded merchandise site, and a music publishing venture (Danville VA Official Website, https://www.wdtv.com, https://www.wdbj7.com).
His civic roles include chairmanship of the Danville‑Pittsylvania Regional Industrial Facility Authority (RIFA), membership on regional planning commissions, and leadership within local service organizations. Vogler was recognized as Virginia Local Legislator of the Year (2017) and was appointed to the Virginia Small Business Commission (2022) by Governor Glenn Youngkin.
Public Reaction and Community Response
Local and state leaders swiftly condemned the violent attack. Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin, Danville Vice‑Mayor James Buckner, and Mayor Alonzo Jones all issued statements expressing shock and solidarity with Vogler and his family, calling for swift justice and offering prayers for his recovery.
Andrew Brooks emotionally described the incident as a “senseless act of violence”, emphasizing both the personal loss and the vulnerability felt by the community in its aftermath (Straight Arrow News). The attacker’s motive being personal makes it particularly disturbing, officials note, and reinforces broader concerns about violence targeting public officials.
Broader Context and Concern
Although Vogler’s political work wasn’t the motivation, the attack comes amid a troubling wave of recent violence against elected officials in the U.S., raising questions about the safety of public servants. High-profile incidents—including the shootings in Minnesota earlier this year—have put renewed focus on threats beyond partisan contexts .
Looking Ahead
At this time, Vogler’s medical status remains undisclosed, but officials confirm he is undergoing treatment at a burn center. The Danville Police Department is continuing its investigation, and additional details—including witness statements, updates on charges, and health developments—are expected to emerge (The Daily Beast)
Meanwhile, the Danville community has rallied around Vogler’s loved ones and colleagues, with calls for unity, restraint, and continued vigilance in local politics and civic life.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Victim | J. Lee Vogler, 38; 4‑term Danville City Councilman, community leader |
| Location | Showcase Magazine office, Danville, VA |
| Time | July 30, 2025, ~11:30 a.m. |
| Assailant | Shotsie Michael Buck Hayes, 29, known to Vogler |
| Crime details | Doused with gasoline, set on fire; personal dispute |
| Charges | Attempted first‑degree murder, aggravated malicious wounding |
| Response | Airlifted to burn center; suspect arrested; community and leadership condemn |
| Motive | Personal — not political |
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