Police: Woman pierced in chest by beach umbrella

A 46-year-old Pennsylvania woman was flown out after officials say she was pierced in the chest by a beach umbrella on 54th Street in Ocean City Sunday afternoon.

The incident happened at approximately 3:11 PM. Ocean City Beach Patrol Captain Butch Arbin said the victim was pierced by an unattended rental umbrella that had not been returned to the stand.

Captain Arbin said first responders secured the umbrella so it wouldn't blow around with the help of beach goers.

Once the fire department arrived on scene, they were able to cut the wooden pole, but a small piece remained under the victim's skin.

We're told first responders didn't want to remove the pole completely in fear of causing more damage. 

OC Paramedics responded to the scene and took the woman to a Maryland State Police aviation helicopter. She was then transported to Peninsula Regional Medical Center. 

According to Captain Arbin, at PRMC, doctors will perform X-rays and decide the best way to remove the remaining pole.

Her condition is currently unknown at this time, but officials say her injuries are not life threatening.

This article will be updated as more information becomes available.