Virginia Councilman Lee Vogler fundraiser soars after arson attack

A fundraiser to support Virginia City Councilman Lee Vogler, who was severely burned when he attacked by a maniac this week, has topped $50,000.

The GoFundMe set up by friends and family of the 38-year-old Danville Republican and father of two has raised $55,741 as of Sunday morning — with a goal of $100,000.

“On July 30, 2025, our friend, husband, father, and community leader Lee Vogler was the victim of a horrific and senseless act of violence,” reads the appeal from Andrew Brooks, the publisher of Showcase Magazine, where Vogler also works.

“An individual entered his workplace at Showcase Magazine—where Lee serves as Director of Marketing—and set him on fire,” Brooks said.

“Lee sustained second- and third-degree burns over more than half his body and is currently in stable but critical condition at the UNC Chapel Hill Burn Clinic.

“His wife, Blair, and their children are by his side as he begins what will be a long, painful, and uncertain recovery. He faces multiple surgeries, an extended hospital stay, and months—if not years—of rehabilitation.”

After a swell in support and donations in the first 24 hours of the appeal, Brooks gave an update thanking people for their support as Vogler begins his difficult recovery.

“The generosity and love we’ve seen has been overwhelming, and it’s making a real difference,” he said.

Blair Vogler, Lee’s wife, also thanked the public for their generosity.

“Our family is overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support we’ve received in just 24 hours. We are deeply grateful for your prayers, messages, and generosity during this incredibly difficult time,” she wrote.

“Knowing our community is standing with us means more than words can express, and it has given us strength when we need it most. Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts.”

The crazed arsonist who allegedly dumped a 5-gallon bucket of gasoline over Vogler at his work office and then set him on fire has been identified by cops as 29-year-old Shotsie Michael Buck Hayes.

His senseless alleged actions stem from a personal matter not related to Vogler’s political position and affiliation, authorities said — without revealing the exact motive.

Hayes has been charged with attempted first-degree murder and aggravated malicious wounding, the Danville Police Department said in a statement on Facebook.

He is being held without bond at the Danville City Jail, and the investigation is ongoing.