Army Vet Wins $1.3 Million Lottery Prize in Pennsylvania

PITTSBURGH, Pennsylvania — Christopher Lehman, an active-duty Army service member, won over $1.3 million in the Pennsylvania Lottery’s Jackpot Spectacular online game.

The presentation of a commemorative check took place at the Lottery Area Office in Pittsburgh on Tuesday, June 10. Lehman, who has proudly served in the Army for 25 years, won a total of $1,351,472 on May 30, just after opening his online lottery account.

“My wife always says I have good luck,” Lehman said. “I looked at the progressive prize amount for Jackpot Spectacular and thought, ‘That one’s about to pop soon.’ I budgeted $100 to play that day, thinking if I lose, I lose.” A progressive Lottery prize grows until it is won.

Lehman recalled the moment he learned of his win. “The bonus popped up, and I couldn’t believe it,” he said. “I just stared at it for a second. My wife didn’t believe it either. We called the Lottery together, and I put the phone on speaker so we could both hear it was real.”

Lehman moved to Beaver County from New Hampshire about a month before his win. He mentioned that he had enjoyed playing lottery games online while living in New Hampshire.

“Congratulations to Christopher and his family on winning this life-changing prize,” said Pat Browne, Secretary of Revenue. “Every Lottery purchase helps the Pennsylvania Lottery support programs for older Pennsylvanians.”

Lottery Executive Director Drew Svitko added, “We’re always happy to see one of our players win a prize that will make a big difference in their lives.”

Lehman and his wife, Judith, plan to pay off their mortgage and Judith’s car loan with the winnings, stating, “We will probably invest the rest.”

Lehman also expressed pride in his youngest daughter, who is graduating from Army basic training on June 12, noting he is excited to celebrate her accomplishment.