DANVILLE, Va. (rbs news now) — Danville City Councilman Lee Vogler has made notable strides in his recovery after being attacked and set on fire at his workplace on July 30, his wife says.

According to a GoFundMe post by his wife Blair Vogler, Lee sustained second- and third-degree burns over more than half his body.

An update on October 10 offered a glimpse of progress: Lee completed a skin graft surgery, is now walking independently, climbing stairs, and regaining grip strength in his hands.

“I appreciate all the prayers, love and support. I am getting better each day. Looking forward to seeing everyone soon,” Lee said in a Facebook post on October 11.

Meanwhile, developments have emerged in the legal proceedings against the man charged in the attack, Shotsie Michael Buck-Hayes.

Three witnesses testified during a hearing September 30: an employee of Lee’s workplace Showcase Magazine, Blair, and an investigating officer.

The magazine employee described seeing Buck-Hayes wield a bucket of gasoline and chase Vogler, then igniting him. 

The investigator testified that Buck-Hayes admitted to pouring gasoline and lighting the fire, citing a suspected affair as motive. 

Blair revealed that Lee’s burns covered roughly 60% of his body, requiring widespread skin grafting, and that his lungs were impacted by smoke inhalation. 

The judge certified the charges, attempted first-degree murder and aggravated malicious wounding, allowing the case to proceed to a grand jury. 

Buck-Hayes remains held without bail, and the next court step is set for October 27. 

Fundraising efforts aim to cover medical costs, travel, lost wages, and rehabilitation and have raised over $172,000.

Blair asked the public to continue sharing the fundraiser and to pray for Lee’s healing.

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