Savannah Police release statement on video that captured Forsyth Park acid attack
By Tia Maggio
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SAVANNAH, Georgia (WJCL) — Tuesday update: Savannah city officials confirmed to WJCL News Investigates that there is video of the attack, but it is “extremely poor quality and does not provide identifiable details that would assist the public in recognizing any individuals or generating meaningful leads.”
Initial report: New developments in the shocking acid attack at Forsyth Park — as the victim, Ashley Wasielewski, met face-to-face with investigators in what she describes as a “highly charged” conversation.
The meeting took place at Savannah Police Department headquarters and lasted just over an hour.
WJCL 22 News Investigates observed Wasielewski arriving with a family member around 10:55 a.m. and leaving shortly after noon.
While she declined an on-camera interview, Wasielewski spoke briefly with WJCL 22 News after the meeting, calling it “highly charged” but not providing further details.
Four months after the brutal attack, authorities have not announced any arrests, identified a suspect, or released a motive. The case dates back to December 10, when investigators say Wasielewski was walking through Forsyth Park when an unknown person randomly poured acid on her.
Her son, Westley Wasielewski, spoke weeks after the attack about the lack of answers.
“It’s definitely been difficult,” he said. “Savannah’s such a special place to my mother, and I don’t know if it will feel the same if he is not caught.”
A close friend who heard Wasielewski’s screams during the attack described the moment as “horrific.”
Investigators later confirmed the substance used was a sulfuric acid compound, leaving Wasielewski with third- and fourth-degree burns across much of her body. Medical experts say injuries of that scale can take years to treat and may cost hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars.
A source tells WJCL 22 News the meeting included multiple Savannah Police officials — including a captain, lieutenant, and detective — along with two FBI agents.
In a statement, the Federal Bureau of Investigation confirmed its agents attended, calling the meeting a routine update for the victim. The agency added that the Savannah Police Department remains the lead in the investigation.
Wasielewski did not discuss her recovery but said she is “doing well.” Savannah Police also confirmed the meeting but declined to release additional information.
The investigation remains ongoing.
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