Virginia Man Sentenced for Arson Attack on Councilman
A man who set a Virginia councilman on fire during a jealous outburst received his sentence in court on Thursday.
Shotsey Buckhays was handed a 40-year prison term by Circuit Court Judge James Reynolds for his attempt to burn Danville City Councilman Lee Vogler alive on July 30, 2025.
During the attack, Buckhays entered Vogler’s office, poured gasoline on him, forced him outside, and ignited the flames. He accused Vogler, who is married with two children, of having an affair with his wife.
Buckhays’ attorneys indicated plans to appeal the decision, suggesting he might eventually return to Britain since he is not a U.S. citizen.
Vogler, who was present at the hearing, emotionally recounted the brutal attack that left him with severe injuries, including burns covering 60 percent of his body.
He experienced second- and third-degree burns, as well as complications such as burn shock and lung damage from smoke inhalation, requiring multiple surgeries for the extensive injuries.
U.S. Attorney Michael Newman mentioned that Buckhays expressed what he described as an apology but maintained that his actions stemmed from his belief that Vogler was involved with his then-wife, Mary Alice.
Just weeks before the attack, Buckhays and Mary Alice had initiated divorce proceedings.
The validity of Buckhays’ claims about an affair between Vogler and his wife remains uncertain.
In April, Buckhays pleaded guilty to charges of attempted first-degree murder and aggravated serious bodily injury.
Judge Reynolds sentenced him to 10 years for attempted murder, with five years of that suspended. For aggravated assault, he received a life sentence, with 35 years suspended.
Newman highlighted that the judge’s sentence was significantly harsher than the guidelines recommended for assault, calling it an appropriate response to an atrocious act.
“I am pleased that the court agreed that this was an egregious incident that exceeded the guidelines and ruled in a manner that hopefully holds the defendant accountable for this horrific act,” Newman stated.
