SUMMERTON, S.C. (THECOUNT) — Dana Weinger, 56, of Huger, South Carolina, died Saturday evening after a patio umbrella became airborne during strong winds and struck her while she was dining with her husband at a restaurant along Lake Marion, according to officials.
Authorities said the incident occurred around 7:40 p.m. Saturday at Driftwood Grill Home of the Lazy Gator in Summerton.
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According to the Clarendon County Coroner’s Office, Weinger and her husband were seated on the restaurant’s outdoor patio when severe winds suddenly moved through the area.
Investigators said a patio umbrella was lifted from a nearby table by the wind and struck Weinger in the head and neck area.
First responders arriving at the restaurant found Weinger unresponsive and suffering from severe lacerations to her head and neck.
Officials said she was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Clarendon County Coroner’s Office confirmed the death is being investigated as an accident.
An autopsy has been scheduled for Wednesday at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston.
Driftwood Grill Home of the Lazy Gator later confirmed the incident occurred during what it described as a “sudden severe weather event at Lake Marion.”
In a statement posted to social media, the restaurant said the tragedy deeply affected guests, employees, first responders, and members of the surrounding community.
The restaurant also stated that support sessions involving chaplains, authorities, and counselors were held Monday for individuals impacted by the incident.
Lake Marion, located in central South Carolina, is one of the state’s largest lakes and a popular destination for boating, fishing, and waterfront dining.
Authorities have not indicated whether weather advisories were active in the area at the time the winds occurred.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Google Maps: Driftwood Grill Home of the Lazy Gator, Summerton, South Carolina
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