URGENT UPDATE: A 46-year-old woman, Ashley Wasielewski, suffered devastating burns after a stranger poured acid over her head while she was walking in Forsyth Park, Savannah, late Wednesday night. The attack occurred at approximately 8:16 PM as Ashley was returning from a Christmas program at a local church.
Ashley’s family revealed that she was approached by the assailant, who doused her with a corrosive liquid, leading to horrific injuries. Eyewitness accounts indicate that Ashley initially believed she was being splashed with water before realizing the severity of the situation. Her friend recounted, “She was instantly like: ‘Why are you pouring water on me?’ And then her skin started to burn,” further describing how Ashley’s pants began to burn off her body.
The corrosive substance not only inflicted severe burns on Ashley’s skin, leaving her with second- and third-degree injuries over half her body, including her face, scalp, hands, and legs, but it also melted her car key fob stored in her pocket. Ashley was rushed to the Augusta Burn Center for emergency treatment, where her son, Westley, confirmed her condition.
Westley stated, “We don’t know who did it. She doesn’t have any enemies. She is a friend to everyone.” This shocking incident has left the community in disbelief and fear, prompting local authorities to increase police presence in city parks as they search for the unidentified attacker.
Local law enforcement is collaborating with the FBI to locate the suspect. Police have released CCTV footage showing the assailant wearing blue jeans, a dark hooded sweatshirt, and a white cartoon rabbit mask. The Savannah Police Department is treating the case with the utmost urgency, emphasizing the need to apprehend the individual responsible for this senseless act.
“While this attack is deeply troubling, there is currently no information indicating a broader or ongoing threat to the public,” said Savannah Mayor Van Johnson.
The motive behind this unprovoked attack remains unclear, as reports indicate the assailant did not attempt to rob Ashley or take any belongings. Family and friends describe Ashley as a kind-hearted individual who often volunteered for homeless people in her community.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward. As the search for the attacker continues, the community rallies in support of Ashley and her family during this harrowing time. Updates on her condition and the investigation are expected to be released in the coming days. Stay tuned for more developments.
