A tragic and unusual accident occurred in a quaint lakeside town in South Carolina, resulting in a woman’s death after a restaurant umbrella became a deadly projectile, as reported by local officials.
On Saturday night, Dana Weinger, 56, was relishing an evening with her family, including her husband, at the Driftwood Grill Home of the Lazy Gator, located at Lake Marion in Summerton, South Carolina. A sudden gust of wind uprooted an umbrella, sending it flying through the air.
The airborne umbrella tragically struck Weinger in the neck, causing a fatal injury by severing her carotid artery, confirmed Clarendon County Sheriff Tim Baxley in an interview with WIS 10.
Emergency medical services quickly arrived at the scene, discovering Weinger unresponsive. Despite their efforts, she was pronounced dead at the location.
An aerial photograph captures the serene beauty of Lake Marion at sunset in Santee, S.C., showcasing the town’s peaceful ambiance. (David Garrison/Getty Images)
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Clarendon County Coroner Jacqueline Blackwell described the accident in an interview with KTVB.
“This is not an everyday occurrence,” Blackwell reportedly said. “This is just one of those tragic things that happen.”
“It was a strong, strong wind, like a microburst that came through and knocked not just the umbrella, it knocked all of the furniture and other debris came onto where they were sitting,” she continued.
The accident occurred at Lake Marion in South Carolina. (Wirestock/Getty Images)
Blackwell described Weinger’s husband as “emotional.”
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“It was very emotional for him, and I spoke with the owners of the restaurant, and they say all the family members were gathered there as well,” Blackwell said. “They were there eating, dining, they had a large crowd.”
The Driftwood Grill offered condolences and expressed gratitude to first responders on its Facebook page.
“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,” the restaurant said Sunday morning.
Red umbrellas shade outdoor tables on a patio with views and green grass. (Adventure_Photo/Getty Images)
“This has deeply affected many people in our community, including guests, staff, first responders, and everyone involved,” the post continued. 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,” the post finished. “Please continue to keep everyone affected in your thoughts and prayers.”
The restaurant is also coordinating with local officials to offer grief counselors to staff and members of the community, according to a later Facebook post.
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