A simple $5 lottery ticket turned into a life-changing windfall for a 64-year-old woman from Allegan County, Michigan, who hit the jackpot with a half-a-million dollar win. The lucky winner, whose identity remains anonymous, struck gold when she purchased a Ghostbusters-themed scratch-off ticket from a local Marathon gas station.
The Michigan Lottery detailed the woman’s lucky break, revealing how the excitement unfolded. The Ghostbusters scratch-off game, which made its debut in September 2023, had been a regular part of her life since its launch. Little did she know that one of her routine purchases would dramatically alter her financial landscape.
It seemed like any other ordinary day for the winner, who, while discussing her retirement plans with the cashier at the gas station, was handed her fate in the form of a ticket. As the cashier wished her luck, perhaps neither of them grasped how prophetic this exchange would be. The ticket, purchased at the Marathon station located at 665 Allegan Street in Plainwell, became the bearer of tremendous fortune.
Later that day, during her break, she scratched off her ticket, initially under the impression that she had won a modest $500. However, a colleague urged her to double-check. Upon closer examination, she was startled to discover it wasn’t just $500—she had won a staggering $500,000. The overwhelming surprise left her feeling like she was going to have a heart attack—a mix of shock and joy that no doubt left an indelible mark on her day.
Upon visiting the lottery headquarters to claim her prize, the winner revealed her plans for the unexpected bounty. With prudence in mind, she decided to use the money to pay off her debts and mortgage, and then save whatever remained, no doubt providing a more comfortable and secure foundation for her impending retirement.
Regarding the game itself, since the launch of Ghostbusters in September 2023, it has paid out over $12 million in prizes to participants. With just a $5 ticket, players have the opportunity to win a top prize of $500,000, alongside other major rewards, including three $10,000 prizes and 39 $2,500 prizes. Currently, there are still $18 million in prizes to be won in the game. Ghostbusters boasts overall odds of winning any prize at 1 in 4.04.
The Michigan Lottery also notes that tickets for such games can be purchased in person at various retail locations, including gas stations, convenience stores, and grocery outlets. Selected airport terminals might also offer the opportunity to buy lottery tickets to travelers feeling lucky.
For those who prefer the convenience of technology, Jackpocket serves as the official digital lottery courier of the USA TODAY Network. This service is available in several U.S. states and territories, allowing lottery enthusiasts to order tickets online. Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Idaho, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Puerto Rico, Texas, Washington D.C., and West Virginia residents can tap into this service.
Using the Jackpocket app, players can select their lottery game, pick numbers, place orders, and view their tickets all from their mobile devices or home computers. They can even claim winnings through the app.
It’s worth noting that a portion of revenue from referrals to Jackpocket services made by the audience may benefit Gannett. Interested parties must be aware of age restrictions—18 or older, 21+ in Arizona, and 19+ in Nebraska, to participate. Jackpocket is not affiliated with any state lottery. Users with gambling problems are encouraged to seek assistance through various helplines provided in New York, Massachusetts, Oregon, Puerto Rico, and other regions, with details and full terms available on the Jackpocket website.
This heartwarming tale of a Michigan woman’s lottery luck serves as a reminder of the thrill and dreams that a simple scratch-off ticket can hold. As she looks ahead to her retirement, bolstered by her prize, the Ghostbusters game will continue to offer others a chance at a similar stroke of fortune.
