Macomb County Man’s ‘Losing’ Lottery Ticket Turns Into $4 Million Jackpot

MACOMB COUNTY, Mich. — A 43-year-old Macomb County man experienced a life-changing surprise after discovering a scratch-off lottery ticket he initially thought was a loser was actually worth $4 million.

The man, who has chosen to remain anonymous, purchased the Magnificent Millions ticket at the 9 Mile Stop & Go in Warren, Michigan. He recounted how he scratched off the ticket, saw no immediate winning symbols, and discarded it, believing it held no value.

“I tossed the ticket aside, not thinking anything of it,” he stated. However, his perception shifted during a subsequent visit to a gas station. “The next time I stopped at a gas station, I took the ticket inside and scanned it just to make sure I hadn’t missed anything,” he explained.

The lottery scanner delivered an unexpected message, prompting the man to file a claim. This revelation sparked a closer examination of the ticket. “When I scanned it and got the message to file a claim, I knew I had missed something on the ticket. When I looked it over again, I saw a spot I forgot to scratch,” he said. The unrevealed spot held the key to his newfound fortune. “When I revealed I was a $4 million winner I went numb!”

Michigan Lottery Commissioner Suzanna Shkreli emphasized the importance of verifying lottery tickets through official scanning methods. “Scanning your tickets at a retailer or on the Michigan Lottery app is easy and will ensure you never miss a life-changing prize,” Shkreli said.

The man recently visited Michigan Lottery headquarters to claim his winnings. He opted for a one-time lump sum payment of approximately $2.7 million, after taxes. He plans to save the money.

The Magnificent Millions scratch-off game was launched in September. Each ticket costs $30, and prizes range from $30 to the $4 million grand prize.