Clarence Jackson loses $5.8 million lottery jackpot

Clarence Jackson, a resident of Connecticut, lost a $5.8 million lottery jackpot after failing to claim his prize within the required one-year timeframe. Jackson purchased a Quick Pick ticket on October 13, 1995, which contained the winning six-number combination.

Jackson, who was working as a cleaner and caring for his father during treatment for emphysema, did not realize he had won until October 13, 1996, the final day of the eligibility period. His attempt to claim the prize was further complicated by a series of logistical hurdles: the deadline fell on a Sunday, and the following day was Columbus Day, a public holiday. Unaware that he could process the claim through the retailer where the ticket was purchased, Jackson was unable to present the ticket to the Connecticut Lottery Corporation until October 15.

Following the denial of his claim, Jackson filed a lawsuit against the Connecticut Lottery Corporation in October 1996. In court, he cited his responsibilities as a caregiver for his ailing father as the reason for his delay in checking the ticket.