At a Glance
- A North Carolina grandfather literally collapsed when his $30 scratch-off revealed a $1 million prize
- Jesse Johnson chose a $600,000 lump sum and walked away with $432,068 after taxes
- He plans to use the money to help care for his 22 grandchildren
- Why it matters: The win highlights both the life-changing potential of lottery games and the remaining unclaimed prizes
A North Carolina grandfather’s knees buckled the moment he realized his $30 scratch-off ticket had made him a millionaire, according to lottery officials.
Jesse Johnson was standing in a parking lot on the morning of January 7 when the “MAX-A-MILLION” ticket revealed the top prize. His body gave out before his mind fully processed the news.
“Suddenly his feet gave out beneath him,” the North Carolina Education Lottery said in a January 8 release.
The Moment Everything Changed
Johnson, a Snow Hill resident, had just scratched off the final symbol when shock set in.
“I just fell down beside my truck,” he told officials.
The physical reaction matched the emotional surge. After picking himself up, Johnson tried to call his wife but could barely speak.
“I couldn’t really talk over the phone. I was so excited,” he said.
He bought the ticket at Nour Tobacco in Kinston, North Carolina. Reflecting on the purchase, Johnson credited simple timing.
“I guess I was just in the right place at the right time,” he said.
Cash Decision and Tax Reality
Johnson claimed the prize the same day. He faced a common lottery choice:
- $50,000 a year for 20 years
- A one-time lump sum of $600,000
He chose the lump sum. Federal and state taxes reduced the payout to $432,068.
Family First Spending Plan
With 22 grandchildren, Johnson sees the windfall as a family investment.
Officials say he “plans to use his winnings to help take care of his 22 grandchildren.”
The statement is brief, but it signals a focus on long-term support rather than luxury splurges.
Odds and Remaining Prizes
Johnson’s ticket is one of many big prizes still available:
- 16 of 25 $1 million prizes remain in “MAX-A-MILLION”
- 7 $100,000 prizes are also unclaimed
- The game launched in March
The odds keep hope alive for future players, though officials remind players to gamble responsibly.
Community Impact
Greene County, where Johnson lives, has already benefited from lottery proceeds. The county received more than $50 million in state grants funded by ticket sales, earmarked for a new high school.
Key Takeaways
- A $30 impulse purchase turned into a life-altering $432,068 after taxes
- Johnson’s physical collapse underscores the raw shock that can follow an unexpected windfall
- With most top prizes still available, the “MAX-A-MILLION” game continues to create potential winners
- Lottery proceeds continue to fund education infrastructure, benefitting entire communities
