- Dana Weinger, a 56-year-old woman from Huger, South Carolina, was fatally struck by a flying umbrella during strong winds at the Driftwood Grill on Lake Marion over Memorial Day weekend.
- The incident occurred on Saturday evening when a powerful gust, described by the Clarendon County Coroner as a “microburst,” sent the umbrella airborne, hitting Weinger in the neck and severing her carotid artery.
- Emergency responders attempted life-saving measures at the scene, but Weinger was pronounced dead at 8:43 p.m. while dining with her husband and other family members.
- The Driftwood Grill expressed deep sorrow in a Facebook statement, acknowledging the profound impact on the community, guests, staff, and first responders, and requested prayers and privacy for those affected.
- An autopsy is scheduled for Wednesday, and authorities are investigating Weinger's death as an accident, with the coroner noting that the winds also dislodged other furniture and debris.
IN FULL
Loose umbrella fatally strikes woman at lakeside restaurant in South Carolina over Memorial Day
