A Virginia city councilman was deliberately set on fire outside his workplace in what authorities are calling a personal attack unrelated to his political position.
Danville City Councilman Lee Vogler, 38, was attacked Wednesday at the office of Showcase Magazine, where he works as director of sales.
This is according to the Danville Police Department.
Police say 29-year-old Shotsie Michael Buck Hayes, also of Danville, allegedly entered the magazine’s office and confronted Vogler before dousing him in a flammable liquid.
The two men then went outside, where Hayes allegedly ignited the liquid, setting Vogler on fire.
Emergency services responded to the scene, and Vogler was transported to a hospital.
His current condition has not been disclosed, but Showcase Magazine released a statement saying he suffered “serious burn injuries.”
According to authorities, Hayes fled the scene after the fire was ignited.
Police apprehended him a few blocks away.
He was taken into custody without incident.
The Danville Police Department stated that Hayes and Vogler appear to know each other and that the attack appears to be personal in nature.
Investigators emphasized that there is no indication the incident was politically motivated or connected to Vogler’s role on the city council, ABC