Danville Man Charged with Attempted Murder After Attack by Burning on July 30th
- BTW21
- 44 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Danville, VA – (BTW21) The Danville Police Department has officially charged 29-year-old Shotsie Michael Buck Hayes with attempted first-degree murder and aggravated malicious wounding following a horrific attack on City Councilman Lee Vogler on Wednesday, July 30.
The assault, which involved the victim being set on fire, took place in broad daylight and has left the community shaken.
Hayes, a Danville resident, is currently being held at the Danville City Jail without bond as authorities continue to investigate the disturbing incident. The attack, which occurred around 11:30 a.m. on Main Street, initially prompted a massive response from law enforcement and emergency services.
Witnesses at the scene reported that Hayes entered Vogler’s workplace, where an altercation ensued.
The suspect then reportedly doused Vogler with a flammable liquid before setting him on fire.
After fleeing the scene, Hayes was tracked down by officers who, acting on witness descriptions, located his vehicle several blocks away and took him into custody without further incident.
The victim, identified as Danville City Councilman Lee Vogler, was airlifted to a regional medical facility for treatment. His condition remains undisclosed as of the latest update, though the extent of his injuries is feared to be severe.
Authorities have confirmed that the attack is not related to Vogler's political position or affiliations but stems from a personal matter between the suspect and the victim.
At this time, no further details regarding the relationship between the two men have been made public.
The Danville Police Department has emphasized that the investigation is ongoing, and no further information will be released at this time.
As the community waits for further updates, local residents have expressed shock and concern over the violent nature of the attack.
Authorities are urging anyone with additional information about the case to come forward.
Original News Release – Police Investigating Attack by BurningEarlier today, police confirmed the investigation into the disturbing incident. Around 11:30 a.m. on July 30, officers responded to a report of a man being set on fire on the 700 block of Main Street.
The Danville Fire Department and Danville Life Saving Crew quickly arrived to assist the victim.
Witnesses told authorities that Hayes entered the workplace of the victim, confronted him, and proceeded to douse him with flammable liquid.
The victim, later identified as Vogler, and the suspect exited the building, where the suspect then ignited the fire. Hayes fled the scene but was quickly apprehended thanks to witness descriptions.
The Danville Police Department has clarified that they typically do not release the identities of living victims, but in this case, due to Vogler’s status as an elected official, his identity was made public.
The investigation is ongoing, with additional charges possible as more details emerge.
Authorities have yet to release any further information regarding Vogler’s condition.
This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as more details are made available.