Police reveal alleged motive in attack on Danville council member

DANVILLE, Va. (WFXR)- The man accused of dousing Danville city council member Lee Vogler with gasoline and setting him on fire was back in court Tuesday, Sept. 30, for his preliminary hearing.

Shotsie Michael Buck-Hayes is facing charges of aggravated malicious wounding and attempted first-degree murder in the July 30 attack

at Showcase Magazine.

“The defendant [Buck-Hayes] identified he set someone on fire,” said. Danville Police Sgt. G.A. Clay during the hearing. “He stated that he has set the person on fire who had an affair with his wife.”

“He went to the gas station and purchased $3.00 in gasoline,” Clay continued. “He said his attempt was to kill Lee Vogler.”

Blair Vogler, wife of Lee Vogler, testified during the hearing.

“Sixty percent of his total body surface area has third-degree burns,” said Blair Vogler. “In order to correct those burns, had to take an additional 35% of skin to cover those burns at that point. It’s 95% open, which led to infections. He’s been shocked, burn shocks, septic shock.”

Blair Vogler said Lee Vogler has burns to his lungs, which led to pneumonia.

“He’s been to the OR five times since last Monday,” said Blair Vogler.

Steven Seiple, Jr., who works with Lee Vogler at Showcase Magazine, also testified.

The judge found enough evidence to send the case to the grand jury, which is scheduled to meet on Oct. 27.

If found guilty, Buck-Hayes faces a possible life sentence.