The $4M Detour — How an Oversized Trailer Led Connecticut Man To A Life-Changing Jackpot

A Connecticut man is $4 million richer thanks to a forced detour he made to accommodate the oversized trailer he was hauling to a job site. 

Realizing he couldn’t navigate the gas pumps at his usual pitstop, he pivoted to the Gulf Convenience Mart in Cheshire, which could accommodate his rig, according to CT Lottery. 

A Stroke of Luck

While waiting to clock in for his shift, Phil decided to kill time with a lottery ticket. 

“I scanned the QR code, and everything was legit. I just kept shaking,” Phil, whose last name was not disclosed, told lottery officials. “I couldn’t believe it. I was a millionaire.” 

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But Phil didn’t immediately drop his tools and vanish. After realizing he had just landed a seven-figure windfall, he composed himself and finished his full workday as scheduled. 

The $40,000 Retailer ‘Tip’

While Phil is the headline story, the Gulf Convenience Mart is also seeing a big payout. As part of the Connecticut lottery’s incentive structure, the store will receive a $40,000 bonus for selling the winning ticket. 

For small-business owners and retail operators, the bonuses are a major perk of the lottery partnership. They provide a high-margin cash injection that can be used for everything from facility upgrades to employee bonuses — all without the overhead of additional inventory. 

Store manager Mini Jaco told lottery officials the wins aren’t just about the money — they build a “success story” atmosphere that drives consistent foot traffic.

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Lottery as an Economic Engine

Beyond the individual winners, the Connecticut Lottery Corp. is a heavy hitter for the state’s economy. 

In fiscal 2024, Connecticut lottery players won more than $1 billion in prizes, and $387 million was funneled back into Connecticut’s general fund to support education, public health and safety, CLC said. 

Since its launch in 1972, the lottery has contributed nearly $12 billion to state programs, according to CLC.

As for Phil? He plans to put his winnings to work through investments — after a well-deserved vacation.

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