Danville City Councilman Lee Vogler is currently facing a long, painful, and uncertain recovery after being set ablaze in a ruthless personal attack. The 38-year-old lawmaker is hospitalized with burns covering more than half of his body, and he is in stable but critical condition at UNC Burn Clinic in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support Vogler’s recovery, with his boss, Andrew Brooks, providing updates on his progress.
Vogler, who works as the director of marketing at Showcase Magazine, where the attack took place, will be out of work for the foreseeable future. The horrific incident, which occurred on a Wednesday morning, has left Vogler’s two children deeply traumatized. He suffered second- and third-degree burns covering up to 60% of his body, mainly on his torso, after being drenched with fuel and set on fire by the alleged assailant, Shotsie Michale Buck Hayes.
Hayes, who has been charged with attempted first-degree murder and aggravated malicious wounding, confessed to the attack, stating that his intention was to kill Vogler. The police have reported that the attack was not politically motivated but stemmed from a personal matter. Vogler’s wife, Blair, described him as a fighter who is approaching his recovery with courage, determination, and an unbreakable spirit.
The community has shown overwhelming support for Vogler and his family, with the GoFundMe campaign raising more than $50,000 in just 24 hours. Blair expressed her gratitude for the outpouring of love and support, stating that the community’s solidarity has given them strength during this difficult time. As Vogler faces a challenging road to recovery, his family remains grateful for the prayers, messages, and generosity they have received.
