Virginia city Councilman Lee Vogler faces ‘long, painful and uncertain recovery’ after being set on fire in sadistic attack

The Virginia city councilman, Lee Vogler, who was horrifically set on fire by an assailant, is currently facing a challenging road to recovery as he remains hospitalized with severe burns covering over half of his body. Vogler, 38, is in stable but critical condition at the UNC Burn Clinic in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, according to a GoFundMe page set up by his employer, Andrew Brooks, the publisher of Showcase Magazine.

Vogler, who serves as the director of marketing at the magazine, is expected to undergo multiple surgeries, an extended hospital stay, and months, if not years, of rehabilitation. He will be out of work for the foreseeable future, leaving his two children deeply traumatized by the brutal attack that took place at the magazine’s offices.

The councilman sustained second- and third-degree burns covering up to 60% of his body, mainly on his torso, after the alleged assailant, Shotsie Michael Buck Hayes, soaked him with fuel and set him on fire. Vogler, the youngest councilman ever elected in Danville in 2012, identified his attacker at the scene before Hayes fled.

Hayes has been charged with attempted first-degree murder and aggravated malicious wounding and allegedly confessed to the attack, stating that his intention was to kill Vogler. The police have indicated that the attack was not politically motivated but stemmed from a personal matter.

Vogler’s wife, Blair, described her husband as a fighter who is approaching his recovery with courage, determination, and an unbreakable spirit. The community has rallied around the family, raising over $50,000 in support of Vogler’s medical expenses within 24 hours of creating the GoFundMe page.

Blair expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming love and support they have received during this difficult time, stating that the outpouring of prayers, messages, and generosity has given them strength when they need it most. The family is deeply touched by the community’s solidarity and support, acknowledging that it means more than words can express.

The road to recovery for Vogler will be long and arduous, but with the unwavering support of his family, friends, and community, he is determined to overcome this tragic ordeal.