A man from the UK is accused of setting a US politician on fire, causing severe injuries, amidst suspicions of an affair with his wife. Arrested on charges of attempted first-degree homicide, Shotsie Michael Buck-Hayes, 29, allegedly doused 38-year-old Lee Vogler with a flammable substance and set him ablaze in Danville, Virginia.
During a preliminary hearing, a Danville police officer mentioned that the suspect, originally from Devon, had recently learned about Mr. Vogler’s alleged extramarital relationship with his spouse. The veracity of these claims remains uncertain.
Reportedly, Buck-Hayes admitted to purchasing gasoline from a gas station with the intent to harm the councilman at his workplace. Blair Vogler, the victim’s wife, disclosed that her husband suffered third and second-degree burns covering 60% of his body, along with burn and septic shock, and lung injuries from smoke inhalation.
A colleague of Mr. Vogler at Showcase Magazine, Stephen Seiple, recounted the terrifying moment when the victim was set on fire. Describing how Mr. Vogler sought help while trying to flee, Seiple detailed the distressing events.
Following the attack, witnesses provided a description of Buck-Hayes and his vehicle, leading to his arrest a few blocks away from the scene. Buck-Hayes’ wife had filed for divorce just two weeks before the incident.
To cover medical expenses, Mrs. Vogler initiated a GoFundMe campaign, raising $160,000. She recently updated supporters on her husband’s progress after another skin graft surgery. Buck-Hayes is scheduled to appear in court again on October 27.