$500,000 Crossword scratch-off delivers shocking top-prize win
“Win or lose, it’s just fun to play,” said the woman who won a $500,000 top prize playing the 2nd edition of the $500,000 Crossword scratch-off game. The Eastern Shore player initially thought she won a much lesser prize and was surprised to find out the actual amount.
The shocking turn of events occurred about three weeks ago. The fan of crossword-themed scratch-offs stopped at J&K Wine and Liquors in Easton specifically to purchase her favorite game. She bought one of the $20 $500,000 Crossword games and one of the $20 Win $100, $200 or $500 games, which is another scratch-off that she enjoys. The Talbot County player took the games home so she could take her time playing them.
“I like that you have to use your brain to play the crossword games,” the lucky lady said when sharing her story with Lottery officials.
As she watched TV and scratched off her instant ticket, the loyal player noticed that she was uncovering enough words to win a $10,000 prize. But then, she scratched the third puzzle’s multiplier box and revealed a “50X” multiplier symbol. She thought she knew what that meant, but scanned the instant ticket on her phone to be sure. She was blown away when she saw a $500,000 prize staring back at her.
“I was so surprised that I dropped my phone,” said the Easton player. “I had to scan that ticket about five more times before it sank in.”
The winner shared the news with a few family members, including her cousin, who accompanied her to claim the prize at Lottery headquarters this week. “I just hollered when she told me,” said the cousin.
To make sure her instant ticket was safe, the winner sealed it in a plastic bag and placed it inside a safe until it was time to claim her prize. The service industry worker said she is “happy and blessed” and plans to put her winnings into a retirement fund.
Also happy is the Lottery retailer that sold the lucky scratch-off. J&K Wine and Liquors located at 2 East Avenue in Easton will receive a $1,000 Lottery bonus for selling a $500,000 top-prize winning scratch-off.
The 2nd Edition of the $500,000 Crossword game went on sale in February with five $500,000 top prizes; three remain. In addition, there are six unclaimed $50,000 prizes, 14 $10,000 prizes and hundreds of thousands of others ranging from $20 to $1,000.
