Man Pleads Guilty to Attacking Danville City Councilman

Buck Hayes admits to attempted murder and aggravated malicious wounding in July 2025 assault.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 12:16am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a melted, charred plastic lighter against a pitch-black background, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually representing the aftermath of a violent attack.The aftermath of a violent attack on a local elected official exposes the grim reality of political violence in the community.Danville Today

Shotsie Michael Buck Hayes pled guilty on Thursday to charges of Attempted First-Degree Murder and Aggravated Malicious Wounding in the attack on Danville City Councilman Lee Vogler. Hayes reportedly entered Vogler's office, poured gasoline on him, and set him on fire on July 30, 2025.

Why it matters

The attack on a local elected official has shaken the Danville community and raised concerns about political violence and public safety. The guilty plea may provide some closure, but the severity of the crime has left lasting impacts.

The details

According to police, on the morning of the attack, Hayes became angry after a phone call with his ex-wife and decided to target Vogler, whom he believed had an affair with his wife 10 months prior. Hayes told investigators he put Styrofoam in the gasoline to make it burn longer.

  • On July 30, 2025, Hayes allegedly attacked Vogler.
  • Hayes pled guilty to the charges on April 16, 2026.
  • Hayes will be sentenced on June 25, 2026 at 9 a.m.

The players

Shotsie Michael Buck Hayes

The man who pled guilty to attacking Danville City Councilman Lee Vogler.

Lee Vogler

The Danville City Councilman who was the victim of the attack by Hayes.

Blair Vogler

The wife of Lee Vogler, who was present in the courtroom during the proceedings.

Clay

The Danville Police Department investigator who interviewed Hayes.

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What they’re saying

“I attacked Vogler because I thought he had an affair with my wife 10 months prior, and I became angry after a phone call with my ex-wife that morning.”

— Shotsie Michael Buck Hayes

What’s next

Hayes will be sentenced on June 25, 2026 at 9 a.m. and is facing up to life in prison.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenge of political violence and the need for improved mental health resources and support systems to prevent such attacks on public officials.