Woman Killed by Flying Patio Umbrella at SC Restaurant

A 56-year-old woman was killed in a freak accident Saturday evening when a sudden microburst sent a heavy patio umbrella flying into her neck while she dined with family at a lakeside restaurant in Summerton, South Carolina. Dana Weinger, of Huger, South Carolina, died at the scene after the umbrella severed her carotid artery, according to NBC News.

The Incident

The tragedy unfolded around 7:40 p.m. on May 23 at the Driftwood Grill Home of the Lazy Gator, a popular restaurant on Lake Marion. Weinger was dining outdoors with her husband, Frank, and other family members when a sudden severe weather event swept through the Midlands region.

Clarendon County Coroner Jacqueline Blackwell described the wind event as a microburst — a localized column of sinking air within a thunderstorm that produces damaging, often unpredictable winds.

“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,” Blackwell told Fox News.

Clarendon County Sheriff Tim Baxley confirmed that the umbrella struck Weinger in the neck, severing her carotid artery. Emergency medical services responded promptly but were unable to revive her. She was pronounced dead at the scene approximately one hour after the incident, according to WIS 10.

Investigation and Autopsy

The case is being investigated as an accident. An autopsy was scheduled for Wednesday, May 27, at the Medical University of South Carolina, according to the coroner’s office. Blackwell emphasized the rarity of the event.

“This is not an everyday occurrence,” she said. “This is just one of those tragic things that happen.”

Blackwell described Weinger’s husband as deeply emotional in the aftermath. “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,” she said. “They were there eating, dining, they had a large crowd.”

Restaurant Response

The Driftwood Grill posted a statement on Facebook expressing condolences and gratitude to first responders.

“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 wrote. “This has deeply affected many people in our community, including guests, staff, first responders, and everyone involved. Out of respect for the family and those impacted, we ask for continued prayers, compassion, and privacy during this incredibly difficult time.”

The restaurant also announced it was coordinating with local officials to offer grief counselors to staff and community members who witnessed the incident, according to The Guardian.

Family Tributes

Cameron Weinger, the son of Dana’s husband Frank, posted an emotional tribute on social media, writing: “I love you forever Mrs. Dana. I’m so sorry.” He added: “Y’all both made such a great impact on everyone y’all came in contact with and there’s nothing in the world that could make up for what has happened.”

Close friend Heather Iosa remembered Weinger as someone with “the biggest heart ever,” while family friend Virginia Stephens Neville described her as “truly a great woman, loved by many,” as reported by the NY Post.

Broader Context

While deaths from flying umbrellas are exceedingly rare, the Consumer Product Safety Commission has previously warned about the dangers of unsecured patio umbrellas in windy conditions. Beach umbrellas, in particular, have been known to become airborne in strong winds and cause serious injuries. The incident has raised questions about whether local ordinances or restaurant safety protocols regarding outdoor furniture securing should be reviewed.

What’s Next

Authorities await the results of the autopsy scheduled for Wednesday to finalize the official cause of death. The investigation, led by Coroner Blackwell and Sheriff Baxley, continues as the community of Summerton and the broader Lake Marion area mourn the loss of a woman remembered by loved ones as warm and generous.

“I can’t get over this,” Iosa wrote. “It hurts more than I can imagine.”