Dana Weinger, 56, Killed by Flying Patio Umbrella at South Carolina Restaurant
Updated
Updated · NBC Miami · May 26
Dana Weinger, 56, Killed by Flying Patio Umbrella at South Carolina Restaurant
10 articles · Updated · NBC Miami · May 26
Dana Weinger, 56, of Huger died at the scene after a patio umbrella struck her head and neck while she dined with her husband at Driftwood Grill on Lake Marion.
A sudden strong gust during severe weather on May 23 blew the umbrella from a nearby table at the Summerton restaurant, according to the Clarendon County Coroner's Office.
Driftwood Grill said in a Facebook statement that its "hearts are with the family, friends, and loved ones affected" by the incident during the sudden weather event.
The death, first reported over the weekend without her name, has drawn attention to the rare fatal risk posed by unsecured outdoor umbrellas in high winds.
When outdoor dining turns deadly, who is truly at fault: the restaurant or unpredictable weather?
Did the restaurant ignore weather warnings before a flying umbrella killed a patron?
As extreme weather increases, are restaurant patios becoming hidden danger zones for diners?