By Geoff Herbert
syracuse.com
SUMMERTON, S.C. — A woman was killed when a patio umbrella struck her at a restaurant over Memorial Day weekend, according to multiple reports.
WYFF reports the “freak accident” occurred Saturday night at the Driftwood Grill Home of the Lazy Gator at Lake Marion in Summerton, South Carolina. Strong winds blew an umbrella from a table, striking the woman in the head and neck around 7:40 p.m.
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The umbrella severed her carotid artery, Clarendon County Sheriff Tim Baxley told WIS. She died at the scene, despite life-saving attempts; Clarendon EMS/ Fire Rescue and law enforcement said first responders found her unresponsive with lacerations to the head and neck area.
The victim was identified as Dana Weinger, 56, of Huger, S.C. She was dining at the restaurant with her husband, People reported.
The incident is being treated as an accident. An autopsy is scheduled for Wednesday, according to the Clarendon County Coroner’s Office.
The restaurant confirmed the incident occurred during a “sudden severe weather event at Lake Marion .”
“This has deeply affected many people in our community, including guests, staff, first responders, and everyone involved,” the Driftwood Grill Home of the Lazy Gator said in a statement Sunday. “Out of respect for the family and those impacted, we ask for continued prayers, compassion, and privacy during this incredibly difficult time.”
“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.”
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