A Georgia woman is recovering from severe injuries after a stranger attacked her with acid at Forsyth Park on Wednesday night.
Police say the victim, Ashley Wasielewski, was walking through the park when a man emerged from nearby bushes, approached her from behind, and poured a corrosive chemical over her face, neck, and scalp. Authorities described the suspect as a Black male. He remains at large.
Wasielewski suffered third-degree burns and is being treated at Memorial Hospital in Augusta. Investigators confirmed that she did not know her attacker and that the assault appeared to be random.
“I walk around this park a lot, even at night,” Wasielewski told WJCL. “You just don’t expect something like this to happen here.”
Savannah Police have released a photo of the suspect and are asking the public for help identifying him. Anyone with information is urged to contact CrimeStoppers at 912-234-2020 or submit an anonymous tip through the Savannah Police Department mobile app.
“Our first priority is the well-being of the victim, and our detectives are working around the clock to determine exactly what happened,” Savannah Police Chief Lenny B. Gunther said. He added that patrols in city parks have been increased as a precaution.
Gunther also asked anyone who was in Forsyth Park that night—particularly those who may have taken photos or videos—to come forward. “Even a small detail may help us piece together what occurred,” he said. “Our community is one of our strongest partners in keeping Savannah safe.”
Savannah Mayor Van Johnson echoed that message in a Facebook post, saying city leaders are working closely with police to ensure they have all necessary resources. “We will continue to keep our community informed, and we thank everyone who has already stepped forward to assist,” the mayor said.