Lifelong Friends Split Massive $680K Arkansas Natural State Jackpot

A North Little Rock man is celebrating a life-changing win after hitting the $680,000 jackpot in the February 6 Natural State Jackpot drawing.

According to the Arkansas Scholarship Lottery, the lucky winner claimed his prize at the ASL Claim Center on Thursday, February 12.

Winning Arkansas Natural State Ticket Sold in North Little Rock

The winning ticket was purchased at Park Hill Shell, located at 3100 J.F.K. Blvd. in North Little Rock, Arkansas. The winning numbers were 8, 9, 14, 16 and 36.

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Here's the cool part: the winner plans to split the $680,000 prize evenly with his best friend. He says they've been “tight buddies” for decades.

From $10 to a $680,000 Win in Arkansas

The day actually started with a small win. The man landed $10 on a scratch-off crossword game earlier that morning. Later, he scanned his Natural State Jackpot ticket and realized he’d won something, but he wasn’t sure how much.

On the drive to Little Rock, the pair joked that maybe they’d won $1,000.

READ MORE: 6.03-Carat Yellow Diamond Found at Arkansas Crater of Diamonds

Instead, staff at the ASL Claim Center delivered the fantastic news! He had won the full $680,000 jackpot. At first, he thought they meant $680. When the full amount sank in, he immediately shared the news with his lifelong friend.

Arkansas $680,000 Lottery Winner Stays Grounded

Despite the big check, the two say they plan to use the money to help others and don’t intend to change their lifestyles.

The winner said of his friend,

He’s a good dude

His friend replied,

He is, too.

Sometimes, it’s not just about the jackpot, it’s about who you share it with.