The city of Savannah is on high alert following an alarming chemical attack in Forsyth Park that left 46-year-old Ashley Wasielewski with horrific injuries. Wasielewski, who was allegedly assaulted on December 10 by an unknown assailant wielding a corrosive substance, is now recovering from second and third-degree burns covering approximately half of her body according to a report from FOX 5 Atlanta.
Investigators have ramped up their plea to local residents, urging them to supply any video that may have captured the suspect's movements between 7 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the night of the incident, as new details suggest the attacker entered and exited the western flank of the park; savannah Police and the FBI are continuing vigorous efforts to elucidate this heinous act, which appears to be an isolated event, yet has nonetheless prompted increased patrols in the city's public spaces as a precaution. A person of interest, previously depicted wearing a distinctive dark hoodie with a large cartoon rabbit design—and casually dubbed the "Bugs Bunny guy" by Mayor Van Johnson in a statement obtained by CBS News—is not currently a suspect but has been cooperating with law enforcement.
Savannah Mayor Van Johnson described the event as shocking Savgannah residents "to the core," despite his over 30-years tenure in public service, no memory comes to mind about an acid attack like this, he lamented, according to a CBS News interview. Amidst the ongoing investigation, friends and family have rallied around Wasielewski, establishing a GoFundMe page that has garnered over $170,000 to aid in the mounting expenses of her complex and ongoing medical care.
Wasielewski, who reportedly thought she was initially doused with water before feeling her skin searing, is facing an arduous recovery process, her injuries have been classified mostly as third-degree burns and she may not regain hair on her scalp, and it is uncertain if her body will accept cadaver skin, necessary for her skin grafting procedures, as outlined by a friend's medical update mentioned on the GoFundMe page. The Savannah Police Department is determined to bring justice in this case, in parallel with the solace, Mayor Johnson expressed his commitment to Wasielewski's recovery and affirmation that the city stands behind her nurturing this sentiment of unity and resolve the community has sustained a sense of support and solidarity in the aftermath of this inexplicable violence.
Authorities are calling on the public to contribute any relevant footage through the established FBI digital tip line, and anyone with information about the assault is strongly encouraged to contact the Savannah Police Department at (912) 234-2020 or the FBI's toll-free tip line at 1-800-225-5324. For those wishing to assist Wasielewski directly, contributions to her medical and rehabilitation costs can be made via the aforementioned GoFundMe campaign.
