Loose umbrella fatally strikes woman at lakeside restaurant in South Carolina over Memorial Day
Key Points:
- Dana Weinger, 56, of Huger, South Carolina, died after a strong wind sent an umbrella flying into her neck while she was dining at the Driftwood Grill on Lake Marion over Memorial Day weekend.
- The umbrella severed her carotid artery, and despite emergency responders' life-saving efforts, she was pronounced dead at 8:43 p.m. on Saturday.
- The incident occurred during a sudden severe thunderstorm described as a microburst, which also knocked over furniture and debris at the outdoor dining area.
- The Driftwood Grill expressed condolences and requested privacy for the family, while the death is being investigated as an accident, with an autopsy scheduled.
- Weinger was dining with her husband and family members at the time, and the event has deeply affected the community, including guests, staff, and first responders.