Suspect Pleads Not Guilty in Attack on Danville Councilman

Shotsie Buck-Hayes faces attempted murder and other charges for alleged gasoline attack on Councilman Lee Vogler.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 8:05pm

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An extreme close-up of a shiny metal gasoline canister lid, the surface reflecting a harsh, direct camera flash, creating a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic.The alleged attack on a Danville city councilman exposes the risks and vulnerabilities that local elected officials can face.Danville Today

A man accused of dousing Danville City Councilman Lee Vogler in gasoline and setting him on fire last summer has pleaded not guilty to multiple charges, including attempted first-degree murder. Shotsie Buck-Hayes was arraigned in Danville Circuit Court and will face a five-day jury trial later this month.

Why it matters

The alleged attack on Councilman Vogler has shocked the Danville community and raised concerns about public safety and security for local elected officials. The case will likely draw significant attention as it moves forward through the legal system.

The details

According to court records, Buck-Hayes pleaded not guilty to attempted first-degree murder, aggravated malicious wounding, and armed burglary with intent to commit murder. The charges stem from an incident last July when Vogler was airlifted to the hospital after a man entered his workplace, doused him with gasoline, and then set him on fire outside.

  • The alleged attack on Councilman Vogler occurred last July.
  • Buck-Hayes was arraigned on the charges on Wednesday in Danville Circuit Court.
  • Buck-Hayes will face a five-day jury trial later this month.

The players

Shotsie Buck-Hayes

The man accused of dousing Danville City Councilman Lee Vogler in gasoline and setting him on fire. He has been held at the Danville City Jail with no bond since his arrest.

Lee Vogler

The Danville City Councilman who was allegedly doused in gasoline and set on fire last July. He was airlifted to the hospital following the incident.

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What’s next

Buck-Hayes will face a five-day jury trial later this month to determine the outcome of the charges against him.

The takeaway

This case highlights the risks and vulnerabilities that local elected officials can face, and the importance of ensuring their safety and security as they serve their communities.