In a shocking and violent incident that has sent shockwaves through Virginia, a city councilman was set ablaze on Wednesday morning in Danville. The suspect, identified as 29-year-old Shotsy Michael Buck Hayes, has been arrested and charged with attempted first-degree murder and aggravated malicious wounding following the brazen attack.

Around 11:30 a.m., emergency responders rushed to the 700 block of Main Street after reports of a man on fire. The victim, identified as 38-year-old Lee Vogler, a city council member, was quickly airlifted to a regional medical facility. The extent of his injuries remains unclear, but witnesses reported a harrowing scene as Hayes confronted Vogler in his office, dousing him with a flammable liquid before igniting the fire.

Eyewitnesses provided crucial information to police, enabling them to locate Hayes shortly after he fled the scene. He was apprehended without incident. Authorities have confirmed that Hayes and Vogler were acquainted, with the attack stemming from a personal dispute unrelated to Vogler’s political role.

The Danville Police Department has stated that this is an ongoing investigation and will release further details as they become available. The community is reeling from this violent act, raising questions about safety and the motives behind such brutality. As the situation develops, residents are left to grapple with the implications of this shocking event. More updates are expected as police continue their investigation into this alarming attack.