Factory worker checks his email — and discovers NC jackpot win. ‘I almost passed out’
A North Carolina man found out he hit the jackpot — and was so excited that his wife had to keep him calm.
“I almost passed out,” 52-year-old James Penny told the N.C. Education Lottery. “I was stunned.”
Penny celebrated the $167,635 win after he tried his luck on the Cash 5 game. Using his smartphone, he spent $5 on Online Play tickets, officials said last week in a news release.
While checking his email, Penny found out he matched enough numbers to score big in the Nov. 28 drawing.
“I’ve dreamed of winning the lottery my entire life,” Penny told officials. “It’s a dream come true.”
Penny, a factory worker and father of two, split his prize with two other lottery players.
One of the winners was a mom caring for her son in the Western North Carolina town of Bryson City. The other lucky ticket was sold at a Han-Dee Hugo’s convenience store in Raleigh, McClatchy News reported.
After taxes, Penny brings $118,603 back to Wilson, roughly 50 miles east of Raleigh, officials said.
Now, Penny said he plans to take a family trip this holiday season. He hopes to visit the vacation destinations of Orlando, Florida, or Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, according to the N.C. Education Lottery.
BEHIND THE STORY
MOREWhen gambling is more than a game
Gambling is designed to be a source of entertainment.
If you or a loved one shows signs of gambling addiction, you can seek help by calling the national gambling hotline at 1-800-522-4700 or visiting the National Council on Problem Gambling website.
This story was originally published December 6, 2021 at 11:30 AM with the headline "Factory worker checks his email — and discovers NC jackpot win. ‘I almost passed out’."
