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Written by: A. Smith
Published December 12, 2025 @ 12:20 PM ET
CHATHAM COUNTY, Ga. – A woman is recovering from life-altering injuries after police say she was the victim of a chemical attack near Savannah’s Forsyth Park on Wednesday night, an assault that has rattled residents and prompted an urgent search for a suspect.
Savannah police said the attack happened just before 8 p.m. near the intersection of West Waldburg and Whitaker streets, steps away from one of the city’s most heavily visited landmarks. Investigators said the victim was walking near the park when a man approached her from behind and poured an unknown chemical onto her body.
Police said the victim did not know her attacker.
She suffered third-degree burns and remains hospitalized at a Georgia burn center, where doctors say she will require skin grafts as part of her recovery.
On Thursday night, police released a surveillance image of a person they are trying to identify. The photo shows an individual wearing a dark hoodie walking near the area around the time of the attack. Investigators are urging anyone who recognizes the person to contact police immediately.
The violent assault has shaken people who frequent Forsyth Park, including those who often walk there alone.
A nearby resident told WJCL 22 News they heard screams for help and ran outside, finding the victim on the ground with her clothes partially melted by the chemical. The witness said even her keys appeared damaged by the corrosive liquid.
No arrests have been made, and the investigation remains active, police said.
Savannah Mayor Van Johnson said the city is treating the case with urgency but emphasized there is no indication of an ongoing threat to the public.
“Let me be clear: this kind of violence has no place in Savannah,” Johnson said in a statement. He said police have increased patrols near the park and urged residents to stay alert, use well-lit areas and report suspicious behavior.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Savannah police.