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A longtime scratch-off player from Macomb County wins Michigan Lottery’s first $6 million top prize in the $6,000,000 Wealth instant game.
Michigan Lottery Winner Claims $6 Million Prize With Sterling Heights Ticket
A Macomb County man is celebrating a life-changing win after claiming the first $6 million top prize from the Michigan Lottery’s $6,000,000 Wealth instant game. The 60-year-old player, who chose to remain anonymous, purchased his lucky $50 scratch-off ticket at Najors Liquor & Deli on Van Dyke Avenue in Sterling Heights.
“I play scratch off tickets all the time and have been playing for more than 40 years,” the winner said. “When I scratched the ticket and saw I won $6 million, I thought I was going to faint! I had to scan it on the Lottery app to double check it because I didn’t believe what I was seeing. It still feels surreal.”
$6,000,000 Wealth Becomes a Popular Ticket Across Michigan
Lottery Commissioner Suzanna Shkreli congratulated the player, highlighting the growing popularity of $50 instant games. “The $50 instant games have been a favorite among players since the Lottery launched its first $50 ticket in July 2022,” Shkreli said. “Congratulations to the lucky winner who claimed the first $6 million top prize on our newest $50 game – $6,000,000 Wealth!”
Since its launch in March 2025, players have already won over $36 million playing the $6,000,000 Wealth game. Each $50 ticket offers a chance to win prizes ranging from $50 to $6 million. More than $281 million in prizes remain available, including two $6 million top prizes, 71 prizes of $10,000, and more than 4,400 prizes of $2,000.
According to the Michigan Lottery, instant games remain a vital part of their offerings. In 2024 alone, players won nearly $1.8 billion through instant games, showcasing the enduring appeal of scratch-off tickets throughout the state.
Macomb County Winner Plans a Vacation, Focuses on Savings
The Macomb County man opted to take his prize as a one-time lump-sum payment of about $4.1 million rather than annual annuity payments over time. With his newfound wealth, he plans to enjoy a vacation first and then save the remainder for the future.
The Michigan Lottery’s commitment to offering high-prize instant games continues to attract loyal players, many of whom have made scratch-off tickets a regular part of their routine for decades. Experts in gaming psychology note that large instant payouts can often appeal to players seeking both excitement and immediate financial change.
Sterling Heights Retailer Gets Spotlight for Selling Winning Ticket
The Najors Liquor & Deli store that sold the winning ticket is now basking in the excitement. Retailers typically benefit from selling high-value tickets, often receiving a bonus commission from the Michigan Lottery for each top prize ticket sold.
Local businesses across Michigan, including in Macomb County, are a major part of the Lottery’s success, serving as accessible hubs where players can dream big. As more players try their luck, Sterling Heights may well continue to be a hotspot for future winners.
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