A Virginia city councilman was deliberately set on fire outside his workplace in what authorities are calling a personal attack unrelated to his political position.
Danville City Councilman Lee Vogler, 38, was attacked Wednesday at the office of Showcase Magazine, where he works as director of sales.
This is according to the Danville Police Department.
Police say 29-year-old Shotsie Michael Buck Hayes, also of Danville, allegedly entered the magazine’s office and confronted Vogler before dousing him in a flammable liquid.
The two men then went outside, where Hayes allegedly ignited the liquid, setting Vogler on fire.
Emergency services responded to the scene, and Vogler was transported to a hospital.
His current condition has not been disclosed, but Showcase Magazine released a statement saying he suffered “serious burn injuries.”
According to authorities, Hayes fled the scene after the fire was ignited.
Police apprehended him a few blocks away.
He was taken into custody without incident.
The Danville Police Department stated that Hayes and Vogler appear to know each other and that the attack appears to be personal in nature.
Investigators emphasized that there is no indication the incident was politically motivated or connected to Vogler’s role on the city council, ABC News reported.
Vogler was first elected to the Danville City Council in 2012 at the age of 24.
Since then, he has served in various leadership roles within the council and has been active in numerous city initiatives.
At the time of the attack, Vogler was reportedly performing his duties at Showcase Magazine, which is headquartered in Danville and serves as a local lifestyle publication.
Vogler has been affiliated with the magazine in a sales leadership capacity.
In response to the incident, Showcase Magazine issued a public statement expressing support for Vogler and condemning the violence.
“We are deeply shocked and saddened by this act of violence,” the company said.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Lee and his family as he receives medical care. The Showcase Magazine team is fully cooperating with law enforcement as they continue their investigation.”
Hayes has been charged with attempted first-degree murder and aggravated malicious wounding, according to police.
He is currently being held in custody as the investigation continues.
Authorities have not released further details about what led to the confrontation or what specific grievances may have existed between the two men.
The police department has not yet disclosed whether security footage exists from the office or surrounding area, and no witnesses have been identified publicly.
Local officials have not made formal public statements in response to the incident, though the attack has prompted concern throughout the Danville community.
No other individuals were harmed during the assault, and no fire damage to the office building has been reported.
The Danville Police Department has asked anyone with information regarding the incident to come forward to aid in the investigation.
Hayes is expected to appear before a judge to face the charges in connection with the attack.
The timeline for that court appearance has not yet been made public.
Further updates on Vogler’s medical condition and the legal proceedings surrounding Hayes are expected in the coming days.
The post Virginia Politician Engulfed in Flames During Shocking Daylight Attack: Police appeared first on Resist the Mainstream.
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Author: Jordyn M.
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