Savannah, Georgia, authorities, working alongside the FBI, are actively searching for the individual responsible for a shocking chemical attack that left a woman with severe burns.
Ashley Wasielewski, 46, was walking through Forsyth Park Wednesday evening when a stranger approached from behind and poured a corrosive substance over her head.
Emergency responders rushed Wasielewski to the Augusta Burn Center, where she is receiving treatment for second- and third-degree burns covering roughly half of her body, including her face, scalp, hands and legs.
Her son, Westley Wasielewski, said the substance was so strong it burned through her clothing and even melted the key fob in her pocket.
Friends and family described the assault as completely random and unprovoked.
“They didn’t take anything. This was a stranger deliberately trying to hurt her,” said Connor Milam, a close friend.
Milam highlighted Wasielewski’s charitable work in the community, including distributing groceries and essential items to homeless residents, emphasizing the stark contrast between her selflessness and the attack’s brutality.
Earlier that evening, Wasielewski had attended a Christmas program at a nearby church before walking laps around the park.
The assault occurred suddenly; she sensed movement behind her, turned and was doused with the corrosive liquid, screaming as it inflicted immediate, painful burns, according to LifeZette.
Savannah police released an image of a person of interest last seen wearing blue jeans and a dark hoodie with a white cartoon rabbit on the front.
Authorities stressed the individual is not currently considered a suspect but urged anyone with information to come forward to assist with the investigation.
Savannah Police Chief Lenny Gunther said additional patrols have been deployed across city parks to maintain public safety.
Mayor Van Johnson said investigators are treating the case with the highest urgency while noting there is no indication of a broader threat to the community, The Independent reports.
Westley Wasielewski said he discovered the attack when a passerby came to help his mother.
“I heard her screams as I spoke to her on the phone,” he recalled.
He added that his mother had no known adversaries and was well-regarded throughout the community, making the assault especially disturbing.
Authorities are working to determine the exact chemical used and are reviewing surveillance footage from Forsyth Park.
Police and federal investigators are actively tracking the individual, whose actions have raised significant public safety concerns, particularly in spaces frequented by families, joggers and tourists.
Investigators continue to seek tips from the public that could help identify and apprehend the person responsible.
Community members expressed shock and outrage at the attack, describing Wasielewski as generous, caring and committed to helping others.
The random and violent nature of the assault has left neighbors rattled and sparked conversations about safety in public areas.
Officials have reiterated the importance of vigilance, encouraging residents to report suspicious activity and remain aware of their surroundings.
As the investigation continues, Savannah authorities and the FBI are prioritizing the case, working tirelessly to identify the perpetrator.
The attack underscores the potential dangers of public spaces and the critical need for swift law enforcement action.
Residents are reminded that even well-trafficked parks can pose risks and cooperation from the community is essential in bringing those responsible to justice.
