A woman sustained severe burns when an unidentified individual doused her with a corrosive substance while she was walking in a public park. Ashley Wasielewski, aged 46, was at Forsyth Park in Savannah around 8:16 pm on a Wednesday when the assailant approached her and poured the liquid on her. The park is a popular destination in the historic city, drawing runners, picnickers, children playing, and sightseers.
Authorities in Savannah indicated that Ashley was likely targeted by a stranger in the acid attack. The police are actively seeking the perpetrator responsible for the assault, whose identity remains undisclosed.
According to Ashley’s son, Westley Wasielewski, she is undergoing treatment for second- and third-degree burns at a burn center in Augusta. The burns cover approximately half of her body, including her scalp, face, hands, and legs.
Westley mentioned that his mother was walking in the park after attending a Christmas program at a nearby church when the incident occurred. He received a distressing call from a bystander who witnessed the attack, hearing his mother’s screams of agony over the phone.
From her hospital bed, Ashley recounted to family and friends that she noticed a figure approaching from behind, casting a shadow before the perpetrator poured the liquid over her head, causing immediate burning sensations. The police are collaborating with the FBI to identify the chemical used in the attack, with investigators noting its high corrosiveness, even melting the key fob to Ashley’s car in her pocket.
Savannah’s Police Chief reported increased patrols in parks following the assault, though no arrests had been made by Friday afternoon. Authorities released a security camera image of a person of interest wearing a dark hoodie with a large cartoon rabbit on it, clarifying that the individual is not currently a suspect in any crime.
Mayor Van Johnson emphasized the seriousness of the case, reassuring the public that there is no apparent broader threat. Despite not being named by the police, Ashley’s family and friends aim to raise awareness by sharing her story, hoping it will aid in the arrest of the assailant.
Described as a charitable individual who volunteered at a local nature center and assisted the homeless, Ashley’s friends and family are shocked by the senseless attack. They emphasize that the incident was unprovoked and without any apparent motive other than causing harm to another person.