A peaceful evening walk in Savannah turned into a nightmare for 46-year-old Ashley Wasielewski when a stranger doused her with acid at Forsyth Park.
The attack, which occurred around 8:16 p.m. on Wednesday, left her with severe burns, including the complete loss of her hair.
Immediate Chaos and Emergency Response
Witnesses reported Wasielewski screaming in agony as she ran across the street seeking help.
First responders treated her at the scene before rushing her to Memorial Hospital.
Given the extent of her injuries, she was later transferred to a specialized burn center in Augusta.
Photos circulated showing her face and arm badly burned and her hair completely gone.
Despite the trauma, she is currently listed in stable condition with second-degree burns.
Authorities Launch Investigation
The Savannah Police Department is actively searching for the person responsible.
Although the attacker remains unidentified, police released an image of a man in a black hoodie with a cartoon rabbit on it, stating that he was someone they wanted to speak with, though he is not considered a suspect at this time.
Assistant Chief Robert Gavin emphasized that even small details from witnesses could help piece together the incident.
Both the FBI and the ATF have joined the investigation, highlighting the severity of the attack.
Family and Friends Describe the Trauma
Ashley’s son, Westley Wasielewski, described his mother as having no enemies and a friendly nature.
He recounted hearing her screams over the phone as the acid burned her head and even melted her car key fob.
Close friend Connor Milam shared her harrowing words from the burn center, describing the instant pain and how her clothing began to melt.
Milam noted that nothing was stolen, underscoring the random and violent nature of the assault.
“This was a random person in the park who went out of their way to disfigure another human being,” he said.
Community Safety Measures
In response, Savannah police increased patrols throughout the area, using foot, horseback, motorcycle, and vehicle patrols.
Police Chief Lenny B. Gunther reassured residents that the attacker does not pose an ongoing threat but urged anyone who was in the park at the time to share photos or video footage.
He also warned against spreading rumors, stressing the importance of verified information.
City Officials Condemn the Attack
Mayor Van Johnson called the incident “absolutely horrific” and said such violence has no place in Savannah.
Officials are urging the community to remain vigilant while continuing daily activities.
Recovery and Support for Wasielewski
Friends have organized a GoFundMe to assist with Wasielewski’s medical bills and recovery.
The fundraiser highlights the “unimaginable pain” and extensive burns covering more than half of her body.
She will require ongoing specialized burn care, surgeries, skin grafts, rehabilitation, and occupational therapy.
As of Friday evening, the campaign had raised $12,500 toward a $24,000 goal.
A City on Alert
While the investigation continues, law enforcement and the community are working together to ensure safety and gather any potential leads.
Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward and support the effort to bring justice to Wasielewski.
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