A Saturday afternoon visit to a local casino turned into a million-dollar moment for a Chandler resident, according to a news release.

Michael H. won a $1,033,590 jackpot on a "Wheel of Fortune" slot machine at  Gila River Resorts' Santan Mountain Casino on the afternoon of Saturday, May 3, the release states.

Michael, an Army veteran and retired American Airlines employee of 27 years, currently drives a shuttle bus for an independent living community — often bringing residents to the casino itself.

The release states he and his wife, Betty, are frequent guests at the casino and typically visit on Sundays. This time, Betty suggested they go a day early.

The couple had originally planned to vacation in Rocky Point with friends, but a last-minute cancellation from their dog sitter kept them in town — and brought them a huge dose unexpected luck.

“I’m glad I listened to my wife,” said Michael. “We didn’t plan on visiting the casino today but we did and now we’re leaving big winners.”

With their newfound windfall, the couple plans to purchase a new home and spend more time visiting their grandchildren who live outside of Arizona.

Michael’s jackpot is among the largest awarded at Santan Mountain, which opened in the summer of 2023. It marks the fourth $1 million-plus jackpot awarded at one of Gila River Resorts & Casinos four properties. 

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