A floating umbrella hit a 56-year-old woman and killed her when a restaurant in Lake Marion was suddenly hit by strong winds.
CLARENDON COUNTY, S.C. — A coroner has identified the woman who died after being hit. Hit by an umbrella in the air A South Carolina restaurant was hit by strong winds Saturday night.
Clarendon County Coroner Jacqueline Blackwell said Dana Weigner, 56, of Huger, died of neck injuries in what officials called a tragic accident.
According to Blackwell, Clarendon County dispatch received a call just after 7:30 p.m. about an unresponsive woman at the Driftwood Grill in Lake Marion who was hit by an umbrella due to sudden strong winds.
“This is not something that happens every day,” Blackwell said. “This is just one of the tragic things that happened.”
When first responders arrived, officials said they found Wegener suffered injuries to his head and neck. Emergency crews attempted life-saving measures at the scene but were unable to revive her.
Driftwood Grill, home to the Lazy Gator, is located near Palmetto Shores Campground in Lake Marion.
Blackwell said officials were reviewing weather data from Saturday night with emergency managers to better understand the conditions at the time of the incident.
“It was a very, very strong wind, like a microburst, and it blew not only the umbrella but all the furniture and other debris where they were sitting,” Blackwell said.
Officials said Wegner was dining with her husband and other family members when the incident occurred.
“It was very emotional for him and I talked to the restaurant owners and they said all the family members were gathered there as well,” Blackwell said. “They were there eating, eating, there was a big crowd.”
The restaurant owner told News 19 They did not want to speak on camera out of respect for the family, but said grief counseling has been provided to staff, family and the community.
in a statement After the incident, the restaurant said:
“Our hearts go out to the families, friends and loved ones affected by the tragic events that occurred last night in Lake Marion. This has deeply impacted many in our community, including guests, staff, first responders and everyone involved. Out of respect for the families and those affected, we ask for continued prayers, compassion and privacy during this extremely difficult time. We are grateful to the first responders and community members who responded and assisted in this situation. Please continue to pray for all those affected.”
