Woman killed by restaurant patio umbrella during freak storm in South Carolina

Cause of death is pending an autopsy, which is set to be performed on Wednesday

Published May 27, 2026  •  2 minute read

Dana Winger and stepson Cameron Winger.

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A woman was fatally struck by a flying patio umbrella while eating outside at a South Carolina restaurant.

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Dana Winger, 56, of Huger, S.C., was at Driftwood Grill in Summerton on Saturday evening when the tragic incident occurred, WYFF reported.

Winger was with her husband and other family members, dining on the restaurant’s patio, when a strong gust of wind loosened an umbrella from a nearby table and struck her, Clarendon County Coroner Jacqueline Blackwell said in a news release.

“A female was found unresponsive with a laceration to head and neck area. EMS followed protocol but could not revive her,” the coroner added.

The cause of death is pending an autopsy, which is set to be performed on Wednesday.

The case is being investigated as an accident.

Driftwoods Grill in Summerton, S.C. (Facebook) Photo by Driftwoods Grill /Facebook

What the restaurant had to say

Driftwood Grill issued a statement on social media.

“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 on Facebook.

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

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Winger honoured by friends and family

Winger’s loved ones have taken to Facebook to pay tribute to the woman, who was remembered for having “the biggest heart ever.”

Cameron Winger, the son of Dana’s husband Frank, wrote: “I love you forever Mrs. Dana. I’m so sorry.”

He promised in another post that he would watch over his dad and the rest of the family.

“Just because y’all are no longer here with us doesn’t mean y’all won’t live through us,” he wrote.

“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.”

Heather Iosa, who described Winger as a second mom to her kids, said, “I can’t get over this. It hurts more than I can imagine. She has the biggest heart ever and I’m going to miss her so very much.”

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