FORT MILL, S.C. — A Fort Mill man won the South Carolina Education Lottery's biggest prize to date on "The Big Spin," officials said.
Johnny S., a father of three and city of Fort Mill utilities worker, spun the prize wheel, collecting an astonishing $500,000.
"I'm going to have a panic attack," he said as his hands trembled.
The man won the opportunity to spin the wheel by matching a "SPIN" prize on a $10 The Big Spin scratch-off ticket he bought at a convenience store in Fort Mill just before Christmas.
"I was trying to hold it together and drive safely on the way here," Johnny joked before taking his turn.
He said he plans to use the money to help others, including his family. And while he's not exactly sure what he'll buy, he knows how the money will get used.
"I first want to help others," he said. "Then I want to do something for my kids, and when my wife says she likes something, I'm going to show up with for her."
The Big Spin scratch-off game includes $1, $2, $5 and $10 tickets. Players can win cash prizes or a chance to spin prize wheel at a live event at lottery headquarters. Prizes vary based on which ticket is purchased. Possible prizes range from $2,000 up to $1 million.
Playing the lottery is a form of gambling. If you are concerned about your gambling or worried about a friend, you can call the NC Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-877-718-5543. You can also contact the National Helpline at 1-800-522-4700.
