Danville’s ‘Comeback Kid’ returns: Councilman Lee Vogler speaks after being set on fire

Three months after a brutal attack, Councilman Lee Vogler delivered a message of hope—and encouraged the community to take action.

Applause erupted in the City Council Chambers in downtown Danville on Tuesday as Councilman Lee Vogler returned to his seat nearly three months after being intentionally set on fire in July. 

Danville’s “Comeback Kid”—and coiner of the local phrase #ComebackCity—completed multiple rounds of surgery, skin grafts, physical therapy, and more months before doctors originally anticipated.

Vogler announced on Facebook on Oct. 21 that he was home from the hospital and would be in attendance—in person—at the city council meeting that evening at 7 p.m. 

Following the Pledge of Allegiance, Mayor Alonzo Jones opened the session with welcoming remarks.  

“Oftentimes, when new businesses come into our community, we say, ‘Welcome home,’” Jones said. “When new persons come into our community, we say, ‘Welcome home.’ When persons return back to our community, we say, ‘Welcome home.’ Councilman Vogler, you know these terms; and we’ll simply say, ‘Welcome home.’”

Vogler openly praised God for his recovery and stated that “being here tonight is nothing short of a miracle.”

Shotsie Buck-Hayes, charged with first-degree attempted murder in the assault, recently sought an insanity plea. 

One major discussion at the city council meeting hinged around the possibility of SNAP benefits not being issued in November due to the government shutdown. Jones encouraged council members to take the floor to plea to the community for every person to be fed.

Councilman LG Campbell, Jr. called the topic a “heavy burden,” and encouraged local churches and agencies to connect to help those impacted.

“We are a people of character,” Campbell said. “We are a great city, and I just believe in the time of crisis, we are going to work together like we never have before.”

Vogler spoke next, saying: “In the past, we’ve stepped up and done things to help our community, particularly when it comes to the youth. And so I’m glad you brought this up tonight, mayor. And I hope, like they always have, Danvillians step up—and so I know we will in this case, too.”

Following the council members’ remarks, Jones gave an appeal to the media.

“I just wanted to say this to councilman Vogler: You issued a plea reminding all of the media, the citizens, that you’ll be back. And once again, you’ve done something that’s totally astounding,” Jones said. “All of these cameras right here, I’m hoping that they would help us get the word out that we need help just in case these persons do not get SNAP benefits. And what a perfect time to let these persons know, to help individuals.”

Local resources for people facing food insecurity—or who have other needs—in the Danville area are available here.

As for Vogler, we’ll close with his own words: “I am beyond blessed and ready for the next phase of, I feel like, a second chance at life—and appreciate all the little things. I love you guys, and I’m happy to be back.”

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