Man Accused of Attacking Danville Councilman Pleads Not Guilty

Shotsie Michael Buck-Hayes faces charges for allegedly setting Councilman Lee Vogler on fire in 2025.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 11:15pm

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The man accused of setting a Danville City Councilman on fire has entered a plea of not guilty. On Wednesday, Shotsie Michael Buck-Hayes pled not guilty to setting Danville City Councilman Lee Vogler on fire in July of 2025. Buck-Hayes is accused of entering the office of Showcase Magazine and pouring gasoline on Vogler and then setting him on fire.

Why it matters

This case has drawn significant attention in the Danville community, with concerns over public safety and the mental health of the alleged perpetrator. Councilman Vogler's injuries were severe, highlighting the gravity of the alleged crime.

The details

Buck-Hayes faces charges of Attempted First-Degree Murder, Aggravated Malicious Wounding, and Breaking and Entering While Armed With a Deadly Weapon. Vogler suffered burns to 60% of his body and spent just under three months at the UNC Burn Unit. Buck-Hayes was previously ruled competent to stand trial.

  • In July 2025, the alleged incident occurred.
  • On Wednesday, Buck-Hayes pled not guilty to the charges.
  • Buck-Hayes' trial is scheduled to begin on April 20.

The players

Shotsie Michael Buck-Hayes

The man accused of setting Danville City Councilman Lee Vogler on fire in 2025.

Lee Vogler

The Danville City Councilman who suffered burns to 60% of his body after the alleged attack.

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What’s next

Buck-Hayes' trial is scheduled to begin on April 20.

The takeaway

This case has raised serious concerns about public safety and the mental health of the alleged perpetrator in the Danville community, with the severity of Councilman Vogler's injuries highlighting the gravity of the alleged crime.