A 56-year-old woman tragically lost her life after a patio table umbrella was blown loose by strong winds and struck her in the neck while dining at a restaurant in South Carolina.
The incident happened on 23 May at Driftwood Grill, where the victim, identified as Dana Winger from Huger, was having a meal outdoors with her husband.
According to the Clarendon County Coroner’s Office, a sudden and powerful gust of wind caused the umbrella to detach from the table before striking the woman in the head and neck area.
Emergency responders arrived at the scene and found the victim unconscious with injuries, but attempts to revive her were unsuccessful.
The tragic accident shocked the local community, with the restaurant later issuing a heartfelt statement expressing condolences to the victim’s family and loved ones.
“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 in a Facebook post.
The restaurant added that the incident deeply affected staff members, guests and emergency responders involved at the scene.
In a follow-up post, the restaurant revealed that grief support sessions had been arranged for employees and members of the community struggling emotionally after the tragedy.
Clarendon County coroner Jacqueline Blackwell confirmed the case is currently being investigated as an accident.
An autopsy has been scheduled as authorities continue investigating the circumstances surrounding the fatal incident.
The shocking accident has also sparked discussions online about public safety during sudden severe weather conditions, especially in outdoor dining areas.
