Danville City Councilman Lee Vogler made his return to city council this week, nearly three months after being set on fire outside his office. The suspect, Shotsie Buck-Hayes, has been charged with attempted first-degree murder for allegedly pouring gasoline on Vogler and setting him ablaze.

Vogler described his recovery during the meeting, noting that his children were a key motivation. “My son is playing in the District Championship football game tomorrow, so I’m going to catch that,” he said. “I’m real excited. My daughter’s got a modeling show coming up. Those were two things that I really wanted to be here for.”

Vogler shared updates on his recovery, emphasizing the long road ahead. “This was kind of step one. I’m back home, but I still got a long road ahead of me,” he said. His goal is to regain full use of his hands and return to the baseball field with local kids.

Residents and colleagues praised Vogler’s resilience. Fellow council member Bryant Hood called him “the originator of the Comeback City, aka the Comeback Kid.” Another council member remarked on his appearance, saying, “You look good and we are with you.”

Buck-Hayes, 29, faces charges of attempted first-degree murder and aggravated malicious wounding. According to Danville Police Sgt. Gerrit Clay, Buck-Hayes claimed he targeted Vogler due to an alleged affair involving his wife. Vogler’s wife, Blair, credited their support for his recovery.

Doctors are assisting Vogler in regaining hand function, though he continues to experience pain. The council chambers erupted in laughter and excitement as Vogler was welcomed back.