Suspect told police he dumped gasoline on Virginia city councilman with intent to kill him: Court records

DANVILLE, V.A. (WGHP) — Court documents are giving more insight into the assault of a city councilman in Virginia.

According to warrants, police arrived at the offices of Showcase Magazine on Wednesday. They were told by the victim, Lee Vogler, a Danville city councilman, 38, that Shotsie Michael Buck-Hayes, 29, burned him.

After Buck-Hayes was taken into custody, police claim he “admitted that he had dumped gasoline” onto Vogler and told officials that he intended to kill Vogler.

Buck-Hayes was charged with attempted first-degree murder and aggravated malicious wounding.

Investigators say this attack stemmed from a “personal matter” that was unrelated to his politics or work as a councilman, authorities said.

Court records list Buck-Hayes as indigent with no close family ties in the area, other than an estranged wife. The records say he has lived in Danville since 2020.

Even though court proceedings were continued, FOX8 reached out to Buck-Hayes’ appointed lawyer, Ed Lavado, who said he had no comment.

Elected officials and politicians across Virginia have continued to condemn the attack, including U.S. Senator Tim Kaine.

“People who serve in elected office, you know, we’re under some significant threats these days, and that’s and that’s really unfortunate. So, you know, I’m praying for Lee and his family and for his recovery,” said Sen. Tim Kaine, (D) Virginia.

We don’t know the full extent of Vogler’s injuries, but on Thursday, his father told FOX8 his son is now in stable condition. He’s asking for continued prayers.

Buck-Hayes’ next court date is September 30.