SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) – The victim from Wednesday’s brutal acid attack is suffering from severe burns and will have a lengthy recovery process ahead of her.
A friend of the victim told WTOC, that she likely won’t see hair grow back on that part of her scalp – but is lucky to be alive.
Ashley Wasielewski was on her daily walk when a stranger threw acid on the right side of her body before running away, according to the Savannah Police Department. Police say they believe the attack was random and still do not have a suspect.
Friend describes victim and attack
Karen Oddi, a friend of Ashley’s, said the attack felt surreal.
“I can’t describe it to you. It was a punch in the gut. It felt surreal. It truly felt like a scene out of, you know, some Netflix show,” Oddi said.
Oddi described Wasielewski as someone who would help anyone.
“But if you could meet Ashley, I’m telling you, this girl is… She is just an incredible human being who would do anything for anyone. And so that’s what’s so hard to wrap your mind around,” Oddi said.
Women suffers third-degree burns in Forsyth Park acid attack; Community concerned(WTOC)
Police response and public safety concerns
SPD’s initial statement said there is no threat to the public while police continue searching for the suspect. Police Chief Lenny Gunther addressed public concerns on social media.
“Out of an abundance of caution, we have increased patrols in our parks and in other public spaces,” Gunther said.
However, Oddi disagreed that there is no public threat.
“An official had made a comment that there is not a threat to the public, and I would disagree. This individual has not been apprehended, and until they are apprehended, there is very much a threat,” Oddi said.
Acid attack in Savannah
Park vendor concerns about safety
Sophia DeJohn, a vendor who frequents Forsyth Park, said the attack was unexpected but noted concerns about crime in the area slowly growing.
“She is completely out of the ordinary for me, in my opinion. But crime is getting a little crazy around here,” DeJohn said.
DeJohn questioned the police presence at the park despite promises of increased patrols.
“They’re not here now, and I know that they just released a press video stating that they were going to be out and patrolling and increasing security in the park. And I don’t believe that they will, but…” DeJohn said.
Photos of the victim before and after an acid attack in Forsyth Park(N/A)
Recovery and community support
Oddi said Wasielewski is stable but will require specialized burn treatment, skin grafts, and long-term follow-up support.
Oddi called the attack senseless.
“We should be able to walk the streets and not think that someone is going to pour some corrosive substance, let’s call it acid, on our bodies and maim us and give us a lifelong, you know, battle,” Oddi said.
A tribute walk is scheduled for Wednesday at 8 p.m. to honor Wasielewski and support her recovery. Participants will walk a lap around Forsyth Park.
Oddi also organized a GoFundMe to help pay for Wasielewski’s extensive medical care.
Fundraiser by Kristen Oddi : Supporting Ashley Wasielewski On Her Healing Journey Ahead
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