A South Carolina woman was killed Friday night when a patio umbrella struck her in the head and neck while she dined with her husband at a restaurant in the Lowcountry, according to local law enforcement and eyewitness accounts. The incident occurred at approximately 7:45 p.m. At a dining establishment in Beaufort County, though officials have not yet disclosed the venue’s name or specific location. The victim, identified as 58-year-old Margaret L. Harrow of Bluffton, was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency responders.
Witnesses reported that the umbrella, described as a large, commercial-grade structure, detached from its base and launched into the air during a sudden gust of wind. The force of the impact reportedly caused Harrow to collapse, sustaining fatal injuries. Her husband, who was seated nearby, was not injured but was seen in distress following the incident. A staff member at the restaurant confirmed the umbrella’s sudden detachment but declined to comment further, citing an ongoing investigation.
Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office investigators are examining the circumstances of the accident, including the structural integrity of the umbrella and weather conditions at the time. A preliminary report noted wind speeds of 25 to 30 miles per hour in the area, though it remains unclear whether this contributed to the detachment. The sheriff’s office has not yet determined if the umbrella’s installation or maintenance met industry safety standards.
The incident has prompted local officials to review safety protocols for outdoor dining infrastructure. Beaufort County Council members are scheduled to discuss potential regulatory updates during a meeting this week, though no formal proposals have been introduced. “We are committed to ensuring the safety of residents and visitors, and this tragedy underscores the need for vigilance,” said County Administrator Jonathan T. Reed in a statement.
Residents of Bluffton, a coastal town known for its tourism-driven economy, have expressed shock at the event. A local barista who frequents the area described the restaurant as “a popular spot for families,” emphasizing the unexpected nature of the accident. Funeral arrangements for Harrow are pending, with a memorial service planned for next week. Her family has not yet issued a public statement.
