SUTHERLIN, Ore. — An Oregon truck driver who won a $9.4 million lottery jackpot said he completed his drywall delivery on his way to claim the prize.
Eric Tackett of Sutherlin matched all six numbers for the Oregon State Lottery's Aug. 31 Megabucks drawing: 4, 6, 15, 21, 38, and 40.
Tackett said he initially didn't believe his wife and frequent travel companion, Bethany, when she said the ticket was a winner.
"Normally I win free tickets," Tackett said. "I thought everyone was messing with me when they told me I won $9.4 million. I had Beth check the ticket more than 50 times on different computers and phones."
Tackett managed to match three of the winning numbers in a separate set, meaning he also won a free ticket.
The truck driver arrived in his semi tractor at the Oregon State Lottery office after having dropped off a trailer load of drywall on his way to claim the prize.
"It was on the way," Tackett said.
He said he planned to pick up his trailer after claiming his winnings and even planned to continue his 17-career of truck driving, despite his $9.4 million jackpot.
Tackett chose the lump sum option, meaning he will take home about $3 million after taxes.
The Oregon State Lottery said the TA Truck Stop in Coburg will receive a $94,000 bonus for selling the winning ticket.
"We know the lady who sold us the ticket, when she finds out she is going to freak out," Tackett said.
Great story!
"It was on the way" lol!
Congratulations to Eric & Bethany Tackett !!! A $3 million dollar win will come in handy for the Holidays coming up. Be wise with it.
Roll on!
I'm guessing that will be his last delivery.
Congrats, your gear jammin days are over!
Haha $3million and still won a free ticket
So after doing his job he used his employer's truck to run a personal errand? Bummer if his employer fires him, huh?
The Tacketts will probably buy a new semi-tractor. If they need one.
$3 million can go fast if you are not wise with your money.
Ends up with $3 mil after taxes from a $9 mil jackpot? that's brutal. But hey, his $3 mil ahead of most of us.
More than likely it was the cash-option so the value automatically goes to half, then you have taxes.
Can tell I woke up from a nap. Re-read the article and he took lump sum.
Many drivers own their rig....
Wow Wow!!
Congratulations Mr, Eric Tackett
I may try them numbers here.
Or at least making the payments, most trucking companies don't provide their drivers a rig totally own by the company.
Congrats!!!