CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – Blair Vogler, whose husband was doused with gasoline and set on fire outside his workplace on Wednesday, has thanked the professionals who swept in to aid the Danville city councilman, and the community for its outpouring of support.
Shotsie Michael Buck-Hayes, who has been charged with attempted first-degree murder and aggravated malicious wounding after the attack, told authorities that his goal was to kill Lee Vogler, a Danville city councilman.
Buck-Hayes allegedly found his way inside Vogler’s workplace and doused him with gas. Vogler ran outside to get away with Buck-Hayes behind him. Buck-Hayes is accused of then lighting him on fire. Police say it was personal attack unrelated to Vogler’s political position.
Vogler was first taken to a Lynchburg burn unit, then airlifted to the UNC Chapel Hill Burn Clinic. His wife has since released a statement on social media:
“On behalf of our family, I want to extend our deepest gratitude to the Danville Life Saving Crew, Danville Fire Department, and Danville Police Department for their swift action, compassion, and professionalism during a time of crisis. As anyone who knows him would expect, he is facing this challenge the same way he’s faced every obstacle in his life—with courage, determination, and an unbreakable spirit. Lee is a fighter.
Lee has dedicated over a decade of his life to serving the people of Danville. I have seen firsthand the tireless work, the late nights, and the unwavering commitment he brings to every decision he makes. He doesn’t take his responsibilities lightly—he carries the weight of this city’s hopes and challenges with sincerity, humility, and resolve.
As his wife, I’ve stood beside him through the highs and lows, and I can attest to the integrity with which he serves. Beyond the headlines and the public moments, there is a man who deeply loves his family, city, and its people.
We are incredibly thankful for the outpouring of support from the community. At this time, we kindly ask for privacy as he continues to heal.”
According to a GoFundMe account set up by friends, Vogler sustained second and third-degree burns over more than half of his body, is in stable but critical condition and faces multiple surgeries and an extended hospital stay.
Not long after the attack, Gov. Glenn Youngkin and Danville Mayor Alonzo Jones issued statements of support.
Virginia’s U.S. senators have also addressed the attack.
“I’m praying for Lee and his family and his recovery,” said Sen. Tim Kaine. “Burns are really serious. I was the victim of a minor burn a couple of years that was all my fault, but I know how serious and painful it is, and I know how painful the recovery it.”
“It was a horrific attack,” said Sen. Mark Warner. “I know the councilman. I don’t know what the circumstances were, but the attack was a brutal crime and the perpetrator should be prosecuted.”
On Thursday, Buck-Hayes was arraigned in court, where he asked for a court-appointed lawyer.
