The attack on Danville, Virginia council member Lee Vogler “stems from a personal matter not related to the victim’s position on the Danville City Council or any other political affiliation,” police said in the statement.
Andrew Brooks, the publisher and owner of Showcase Magazine, said Vogler was attacked at the magazine’s office.
Vogler, 38, “attempted to flee,” and the suspect followed him, according to Brooks.
“The victim and suspect exited the building, where the suspect then set the victim on fire,” police said in the statement.
Buck Hayes fled the area, but witnesses described him and his vehicle.
Brooks said Vogler was able to identify his alleged attacker.
He was airlifted for medical treatment.
The extent of Vogler’s injuries is not clear at this time, police said.
Buck Hayes is facing attempted first-degree murder and aggravated malicious wounding charges, according to police.
CNN is working to determine whether Buck Hayes has an attorney.
Danville Public Defender Joseph Schenk said Wednesday, “it would not be appropriate” for his office to represent Buck Hayes because he is friends with Vogler and has known him “personally and professionally for over a decade”.
He works as the managing partner for Andrew Brooks Media Group, a multimedia company that publishes regional magazines such as Showcase Magazine, the biography said.
Officials, including Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin, said Vogler was in their prayers and asked others to pray for him.
“Lee is a member of our City Council family. And today, that family is hurting,” Jones added.
“Our Council is close. We’ve worked through challenges together —and now, we face this heartbreak together.”
“This type of senseless violence has to stop,” Brooks said in the social media video.
“You do not have the right as a human being to get upset with someone enough to lash out and attempt to harm them in any way, much less this way.”
The magazine also offered prayers to Vogler and his family.
“We are deeply shocked and saddened by this act of violence,” the magazine said.
“The Showcase Magazine team is fully cooperating with law enforcement as they continue their investigation.”
Virginia state Senator Tammy Brankley Mulchi condemned the “deeply troubling attack” and said she supports efforts to bring the suspect to justice.
“I pray during this difficult time for his swift and complete recovery.”
Danville is in southern Virginia on the border of North Carolina.
It is about one hour south of Lynchburg and approximately one hour north of Durham, North Carolina.
