Swain County Man Wins $10 Million Lottery Jackpot

BRYSON CITY, N.C. (AP) — A Swain County resident has struck it rich with a winning scratch-off lottery ticket, taking home a grand prize of $10 million.

Terry Millsaps, who resides in Bryson City, purchased a $10 Million Spectacular ticket at Times Turnaround Food Store in Belmont, N.C., for just $50. The ticket awarded him the highest prize available in the game, prompting a life-changing decision.

Millsaps faced the option of receiving the winnings either as a 20-year annuity of $500,000 per year or as a lump sum of $6 million. He opted for the annuity, receiving his first annual payment of $358,764 after taxes. For the following 19 years, he will continue to receive $500,000 each year until he collects the full $10 million.

“This will help me and my family secure our future,” Millsaps said. “It’s a big relief and a blessing.”

Additionally, the lottery has made a significant impact on the local community. Money generated from lottery sales has helped Swain County secure a $52 million grant dedicated to constructing a new middle school.

As of now, there are still two $10 million prizes, five $1 million prizes, and six $100,000 prizes available in the $10 Million Spectacular lottery game, offering others a chance at winning big.

The lottery has been an essential source of funding for various education projects throughout North Carolina, with state legislators approving hundreds of millions in additional lottery funds since the new budget’s approval.