A woman has tragically died after being struck by a flying umbrella at a lakeside restaurant in South Carolina.
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Dana Weinger, 56, died following the shocking incident on Saturday evening, May 23.
Reports state that severe storms moved through the area over the weekend, with the incident taking place at Driftwood Grill in Summerton.
Wife Killed After Umbrella Becomes Airborne During Storm
Weinger had reportedly been dining with her husband when the tragedy unfolded.
Authorities say the couple sat on the restaurant's patio when a powerful gust of wind dislodged an umbrella from a nearby table and sent it flying toward them.
According to Clarendon County Sheriff Tim Baxley, the umbrella struck Weinger and caused a catastrophic neck injury that severed her carotid artery.
Despite desperate life-saving efforts at the scene, Weinger died from her injuries.
WJW reported that officials scheduled an autopsy for Wednesday, May 27.
"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," Driftwood Grill said in a statement shared on social media.
"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."
"Please continue to keep everyone affected in your thoughts and prayers."
Investigation Underway Following Fatal Restaurant Incident
The restaurant later issued another statement on Monday, May 25, thanking the emergency responders who rushed to the scene.
Authorities say the incident occurred around 7:40 PM, with Weinger pronounced dead roughly an hour later.
Investigators have since launched an accidental death investigation, while officials at the Medical University of South Carolina prepare to conduct the autopsy.
According to Post and Courier, this marks the second fatal incident involving a wind-blown umbrella in South Carolina in recent years.
In August 2022, Tammy Perreault, 63, died after a beach umbrella became airborne in strong winds and fatally struck her at Garden City Beach.
The report also noted that umbrella-related accidents lead to thousands of injuries across the United States each year.
Between 2010 and 2018 alone, roughly 2,800 people reportedly required treatment after injuries involving wind-blown umbrellas.
