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Authorities in Georgia’s historic city of Savannah are on the hunt for a suspect involved in a chemical assault on a woman near Forsyth Park on Wednesday evening.
The victim, Ashley Wasielewski, sustained third-degree burns during the incident, which occurred just before 8 p.m. A man reportedly approached her from behind and doused her with an unidentified chemical substance. Investigators have confirmed that Wasielewski did not know her assailant.
According to a witness who spoke with WJCL, they heard distressing screams and rushed outside to find Wasielewski on the ground, her clothes partially disintegrated. The witness also noted that her keys appeared to be corroded by the chemical.
Following the attack, Wasielewski was taken to the Augusta Burn Center where she underwent surgery. Medical professionals have indicated that she will require skin grafts as part of her recovery process.
As of now, police have not made any arrests or identified a concrete suspect. However, they have released a surveillance image of a man seen in the vicinity at the time of the attack and are urging anyone who can help identify him to come forward.
“He is not currently a suspect in any crime,” police said.
Savannah Police Assistant Chief Robert Gavin told WSAV, however, that investigator do have a person of interest and that there is no threat to the public.
Police Chief Lenny Gunther said he was increasing patrols in the city’s parks and other public areas while the investigation continues.