Virginia horror: City councilman Lee Vogler dies after being set on fire; attack linked to personal dispute
Virginia city councilman, Lee Vogler, died in a violent attack Wednesday after he was set on fire by a man who attacked him due to personal matters unrelated to Vogler's political work.
The 38-year-old was doused in gasoline by the suspect, who had forced his way into Vogler's office. As Vogler fled outside, yelling for help, the suspect chased him and ignited the flames.
The suspect, 29-year-old Shotsie Michael Buck Hayes of Danville, was taken into police custody, and charges are pending. Police have not released further details on how the suspect gained entry to the locked office.
The incident occurred at the office of Showcase Magazine, a monthly publication serving southwest Virginia and North Carolina, where Vogler also works as a salesperson and writer.
According to magazine owner Andrew Scott Brooks, two employees were inside at the time.
Brooks described the terrifying scene, as quoted by AP, 'They forced their way into the office, and went to Lee. The next thing, Lee is running through the office covered in gasoline, yelling for our officemate to call 911. The guy chased him outside and set him on fire.'
Vogler was immediately flown to a burn unit at a hospital in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
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His current condition was not disclosed, and UNC Health declined to comment.
The councilmember's father, Jack Vogler Sr, spoke briefly to AP but did not provide updates on his son's condition.
V
ogler has served on the Danville City Council for over 12 years and is currently in his fourth term. He is known for his dedication to the community, having formed a group called Moving Danville Forward to revitalize the city.
Brooks said Vogler's passion lies in serving on the city council and helping residents with their concerns. 'He loves when people call them with a concern that he can help them with, and he has been an asset to the community for much of his adult life,' Brooks said.
Voogler is survived by his two sons and wife and actively coaches their sports teams.
Virginia governor Glenn Youngkin quickly condemned the attack, stating, 'Our prayers go out to Danville City Councilman Lee Vogler who was violently attacked at his workplace earlier today. We pray for a swift recovery for Lee and for peace to be on the entire Danville community.'
Danville is located about 140 miles north of Charlotte, North Carolina.
The investigation remains underway as authorities continue to gather information.
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