A tragic incident unfolded at a lakeside restaurant in South Carolina when a sudden storm caused a loose umbrella to fatally strike a woman. Dana Winger, 56, was dining with her husband at the Driftwood Grill on the shore of Lake Marion, approximately 70 miles northwest of Charleston, when the freak accident occurred on May 23 at around 7:40 p.m.
Details of the Incident
According to the Clarendon County Coroner, Jacqueline Blackwell, the umbrella was dislodged by strong winds during a heavy storm that swept through the area over Memorial Day weekend. The flying object struck Winger in the head and neck area, leaving her unresponsive. Despite efforts to revive her, she was pronounced dead about an hour later at a local hospital. An autopsy is scheduled at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, and the case is being investigated as an accident.
Community Mourning
Friends and family have expressed their grief on social media, remembering Winger as a beloved figure with a generous heart. Her friend Heather Iosa wrote on Facebook, 'Dana has been there with me through thick and thin. She helped raise my kids and never missed a game. I'm so glad we had dinner just two weeks ago. She has the biggest heart ever and I'm going to miss her so very much.' Cameron Winger, who appears to be her stepson, posted, 'Mrs. Dana, I promise I will make sure dad and our lake family is okay. Just because y’all are no longer here with us doesn’t mean y’all won’t live through us.'
Restaurant Statement
Driftwood Grill, which had opened just a day before the tragedy, released a statement expressing condolences to the family and gratitude to emergency 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. 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 incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by severe weather, even in seemingly safe environments.
