An unexpected stroke of luck changed the life of a Michigan man when he seized a forgotten lottery scratchcard abandoned by another customer at a petrol station counter. The 33-year-old, who wishes to remain anonymous, discovered that the ticket he picked up was a £760,000 winner.
“I scratched the ticket off and couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw it was a $1 million (£760k) prize,” he said. “I never imagined I’d win such a significant amount—it truly feels like a blessing.”
Choosing to take a lump sum payout of approximately $693,000 (£530,000) instead of the million-dollar annuity, the lucky winner plans to save the money but admitted the win brings its own pressures. “Winning feels incredible, but it’s also overwhelming thinking about all the possibilities this money opens up,” he added.
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The winning ticket was purchased at a Sunoco service station in Detroit, Michigan. Michigan Lottery Commissioner Suzanna Shkreli congratulated the winner, highlighting how instant scratchcard games like Blazing Suits not only drive sales but also help fund Michigan schools. “In Fiscal Year 2025, the Lottery contributed over $1 billion to the School Aid Fund for the seventh year running,” she stated.
Meanwhile, in the UK, another remarkable lottery story unfolded. Chantelle Riley, a 47-year-old special educational needs school worker from Castle Bromwich in Solihull, celebrated her third major win with the People’s Postcode Lottery. She secured a £50,000 share of a £1 million prize, adding to previous winnings of £14,221 and £1,078.
Chantelle, who recently convinced her partner to join the lottery, was delighted when he also won £50,000. After years of renting, she plans to buy her home and spoil her soon-to-arrive granddaughter. “It’s unreal—I feel numb! Winning in the B36 9 postcode across the road, then again two years ago, and now this big win—it’s like a dream,” she said.
Her continued dedication to playing multiple postcodes where she’s lived paid off handsomely. “I kept tickets for all my addresses just in case,” she explained. When her sister doubted a repeat win in their area, Chantelle’s success proved otherwise, leaving her sister “kicking herself.”
Discussing plans for the prize, Chantelle revealed, “This house might finally be mine, and with my granddaughter due soon, she’ll get some lovely things—maybe even some Prada boots for me!”
The People’s Postcode Lottery, costing £12.25 monthly, guarantees daily winners who play their chosen postcode. With a £38.2 million prize fund available in December’s draws, the deadline to enter is November 30 at midnight.