Savannah, Georgia — A quiet evening walk near one of Savannah’s most well-known public spaces turned into a life-altering ordeal after a woman was attacked with a corrosive chemical, leaving her hospitalized with severe burns and prompting an urgent multi-agency investigation.
Authorities say Ashley Wasielewski, 46, was attacked around 8:15 p.m. Wednesday while walking laps near Forsyth Park, a popular gathering spot for residents and visitors. Police believe the suspect was a stranger who approached her from behind and suddenly dumped a corrosive liquid over her body before fleeing the scene.
Attack happened moments after church event
According to family members, Wasielewski had just attended a church Christmas program before heading to the park for her usual evening walk. As she made her way around the park, she noticed a shadow approaching from behind, moments before the attack occurred.
A friend of Wasielewski, Connor Milam, told investigators that when the liquid was poured on her, she initially thought it was water.
“She was instantly like, ‘Why are you pouring water on me?’” Milam said, according to The Associated Press. “Then her skin started to burn.”
Milam said Wasielewski looked down and realized her clothing was burning away, at which point she began screaming for help.
Victim suffers extensive burns
Wasielewski was rushed to the hospital, where doctors determined she had suffered second- and third-degree burns covering roughly half her body. According to her son, Westley Wasielewski, the injuries include burns to her scalp, face, hands, and legs.
“She doesn’t have any enemies,” her son said. “She is a friend to everyone.”
Medical teams continue to treat her injuries, and her recovery is expected to be long and complex, given the severity and extent of the burns.
Police treating case with urgency
Savannah Mayor Van Johnson confirmed that the attack is being treated as a top priority for law enforcement.
“This kind of violence has no place in Savannah,” Johnson said in a statement. “Our Police Department is treating this case with the highest urgency.”
Investigators believe the attack was unprovoked and that the suspect had no known connection to the victim.
FBI assisting in chemical identification
Savannah police are now working alongside the FBI to identify the chemical substance used in the assault. Authorities have not yet confirmed what type of corrosive liquid was involved, but officials say understanding its composition is critical to both the investigation and the victim’s medical treatment.
Detectives are also working to determine whether the chemical was easily accessible or specially obtained, which could help narrow down potential suspects.
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Person of interest image released
Police have released a security camera image showing a person of interest believed to be connected to the attack. The individual is seen wearing a dark hoodie, though authorities have not released additional identifying details.
Officials are urging anyone who may recognize the individual or who was in the area of Forsyth Park around the time of the attack to come forward with information.
No ongoing public threat identified
Despite the alarming nature of the incident, city officials say there is no evidence at this time of a broader or ongoing threat to the public.
“Detectives are actively investigating the motive and circumstances,” Mayor Johnson said. “While this attack is deeply troubling, there is currently no information indicating a broader or ongoing threat to the public.”
Still, the incident has shaken the community, particularly residents who regularly use the park during evening hours.
Community reaction and safety concerns
Forsyth Park is one of Savannah’s most frequented locations, often busy with joggers, families, and tourists even after sunset. News of the attack has sparked concern among locals about personal safety during routine activities.
City officials say additional patrols may be considered as the investigation continues, though no formal announcement has been made.
Investigation remains ongoing
Police have not announced any arrests, and the motive behind the attack remains unclear. Authorities continue to review surveillance footage, collect forensic evidence, and follow up on tips from the public.
Anyone with information related to the incident is encouraged to contact the Savannah Police Department or submit tips anonymously through local crime tip lines.
As investigators search for answers, Wasielewski’s family and friends are focused on her recovery and asking for privacy during what they describe as an unimaginably difficult time.
What are your thoughts on safety in public spaces after dark, and should cities take additional steps following incidents like this? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
