Woman killed by flying umbrella at South Carolina restaurant
CLARENDON COUNTY, S.C. —
A woman was killed in a freak accident involving an umbrella while she was dining with her family at a restaurant in South Carolina over the weekend.
Around 7:40 p.m. Saturday, May 23, dispatch received a 911 call about an incident at the Driftwood Grill Home of the Lazy Gator at Lake Marion in Summerton. Clarendon EMS/Fire Rescue and law enforcement responded.
When first responders arrived, they found a woman with a laceration to the head and neck. She died at the scene.
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According to Clarendon County Coroner Jacqueline Blackwell, a woman, her husband, and other family members were dining on the patio of the restaurant when a sudden strong gust of wind blew an umbrella from a table, which struck her in the head and neck area.
On Monday, the coroner identified the woman as 56-year-old Dana Weinger (Dana Winger) of Huger.
Loved ones have shared photos of Winger online since her passing.
An autopsy is scheduled for Wednesday, May 27 at MUSC Charleston. The case is being investigated as an accident.
Restaurant’s Response
The restaurant has shared multiple posts about Winger’s death on social media since the accident happened. On Sunday evening, the restaurant said:
“Our hearts are with the family, friends, and loved ones affected by the tragic incident during last night’s sudden severe weather event at Lake Marion.
“This has deeply affected many people in our community, including guests, staff, first responders, and everyone involved. Out of respect for the family and those impacted, we ask for continued prayers, compassion, and privacy during this incredibly difficult time.
“We are grateful for the emergency personnel and community members who responded and assisted during the situation.
“Please continue to keep everyone affected in your thoughts and prayers.”
On Monday, the Driftwood Grill thanked first responders in another post on social media:
“We would like to sincerely thank the Clarendon County Fire Department, Fire Marshal’s Office, emergency personnel, chaplains, grief support team members, and everyone else who took time today to meet with our staff, guests, and community members following Saturday night’s tragic weather-related incident at Lake Marion.
“Today’s support session meant more than words can express to many people who have been emotionally affected by the events of that evening. The compassion, professionalism, kindness, and willingness to help our community begin processing such a difficult situation has been deeply appreciated.
“This has impacted many people — including staff members, guests, first responders, families, and community members — and we are grateful for the continued support, prayers, understanding, and encouragement being shown throughout the area. For anyone who may still need additional emotional or grief support, resources remain available through local emergency support personnel and chaplain services.
“Please continue to keep everyone affected in your thoughts and prayers as our community works together to heal and move forward.”
No other details have been released at this time.
Dining and Cooking