A Genesee County man had a morning he will never forget when a quick stop for coffee turned into a $1 million win on the Michigan Lottery’s $46,000,000 Payout instant game.
The 45-year-old player, who chose to remain anonymous, said he buys lottery tickets every Friday. “I never expect to win the top prize, but I always hope to win a few dollars or at least break even,” he said.
That morning, he stopped at a gas station to buy coffee and a lottery ticket. After scratching the ticket in his car, he had to scan it five times to believe he had won $1 million. “This prize is life-changing and will give me opportunities I wouldn’t have otherwise had,” he added.
Lottery Commissioner Suzanna Shkreli said, “What started as a normal day quickly turned into a life-changing one. It’s heartwarming to know the prize will help not only the player but others, as he plans to start a nonprofit.”
The winning ticket was purchased at Admiral Petroleum on Miller Road in Swartz Creek. The winner recently claimed his prize at Lottery headquarters. He opted for a one-time lump sum payment of about $694,000 instead of annuity payments.
With his winnings, he plans to buy a new car, start his nonprofit, and further his education.
Since launching earlier this month, the $46,000,000 Payout game has paid out over $4 million in prizes. Each $10 ticket offers a chance to win from $10 up to $1 million. Over $47 million in prizes remain, including two $1 million top prizes and 1,058 prizes of $1,000.
