Dana Winger dies after wind-blown Umbrella strike at Driftwood Grill

Dana Winger, 56, died after a table umbrella blown by wind struck her at Driftwood Grill in Summerton on 23 May. She was dining on the patio with her husband when a strong, sudden gust dislodged the umbrella and hit her in the head and neck.

First responders found Winger of Huger unresponsive with a cut and were not able to revive her. Clarendon County Coroner Jacqueline Blackwell said the case is being investigated as an accident, and an autopsy is scheduled for 27 May.

Driftwood Grill response

Driftwood Grill said in a Facebook post that its hearts were with the family, friends, and loved ones affected by the tragic incident during the sudden severe weather event at Lake Marion. The restaurant also said, "This has deeply affected many people in our community, including guests, staff, first responders, and everyone involved," and asked for "continued prayers, compassion, and privacy during this incredibly difficult time."

On Monday, the restaurant said a grief support team met with staff and community members after the incident. The support session, the restaurant wrote, "meant more than words can express to many people who have been emotionally affected by the events of that evening."

Clarendon County case

Blackwell’s finding puts the death in the accident category as investigators continue to handle it as a weather-related fatality at the Lake Marion restaurant. The facts released so far place the central events on 23 May, with the coroner’s office setting 27 May for the autopsy that will follow the initial response.

For diners and staff at Driftwood Grill, the immediate change is already clear: the restaurant is dealing with a death tied to a patio umbrella and has asked the public to give the family space while support reaches people who were there that night.