Virginia City Councilman Attacked in Shocking Incident

Emergency response scene in Virginia following a violent incident involving a councilman.

News Summary

In a shocking attack, J. Lee Vogler, a Virginia city councilman, was set on fire by a suspect after being doused with a flammable liquid. Vogler suffered severe burns and was airlifted for urgent treatment. The suspect, Shotsie Michael Buck Hayes, faces serious charges including attempted murder. The local community is rallying around Vogler, expressing concern over the violence towards public figures and recognizing the bravery of an intervening bystander who helped save Vogler’s life.

Virginia City Councilman Set on Fire, Suspects Arrested

On Wednesday, a shocking incident unfolded in Virginia when J. Lee Vogler, a 38-year-old city councilman in Danville, was attacked by 29-year-old Shotsie Michael Buck Hayes, who set Vogler on fire after dousing him with a flammable liquid. Vogler sustained severe burns covering 50-60% of his body, predominantly on his torso, leading to an emergency airlift to a hospital in North Carolina for urgent surgery.

The Attack

The attack occurred at Showcase Magazine, where Vogler serves as the director of sales. Witnesses reported that the horrifying event was captured on bystander smartphones as Vogler emerged from the office engulfed in flames. A woman driving by played a crucial role in the aftermath of the attack, as she intervened by advising Vogler to drop to the ground and roll to extinguish the flames. Additionally, she provided water from her car to help put out the fire, an act that has been credited with potentially saving Vogler’s life.

Emergency Response

Following the incident, emergency responders acted swiftly. Vogler’s condition prompted immediate airlift to a specialized hospital for treatment of his injuries. The extent of his burns is severe, and further updates on his condition are anticipated as he undergoes surgery and recovery processes.

Charges Against the Suspect

Shotsie Michael Buck Hayes was apprehended shortly after the attack and faces serious charges including aggravated malicious wounding and attempted first-degree murder. Aggravated malicious wounding carries a potential life sentence, while the attempted first-degree murder charge could result in up to 10 years in prison if convicted.

Community Reaction

The shocking nature of this attack has sparked widespread concern among the local community. Residents are grappling with the violence of the incident, particularly as it involved a public official. Reports indicate a significant outpouring of support for Vogler, and many have expressed gratitude for the actions of the woman who intervened during the emergency. HEROISM is being emphasized in discussions surrounding the incident, as community members are calling attention to her quick thinking and bravery.

Background Context

J. Lee Vogler has been a member of the Danville city council, actively participating in local governance and community initiatives. The circumstances surrounding his attack raise serious questions regarding public safety and the nature of conflicts within local political environments. Historically, violent acts against public figures are relatively rare, which adds to the shock value of this event. Virginia, like many states, has laws that respond decisively to violent crimes to ensure community safety.

The serous nature of the charges against Hayes indicates that authorities are treating the incident with the utmost severity. As legal proceedings unfold, the community is likely to remain vigilant regarding updates and the overall impact of this incident on local governance and safety.

As this situation develops, more information will be shared regarding the health status of Vogler and any legal advancements in the case against Hayes. The community is coming together, hoping for a speedy recovery for the councilman and seeking justice in light of this tragic event.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER

WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.

ADD MORE INFORMATION OR CONTRIBUTE TO OUR ARTICLE CLICK HERE!
Advertising Opportunity:​

Stay Connected

More Updates

Would You Like To Add Your Business?

Sign Up Now and get your local business listed!