Prince George's Player Wins $5M Top Lottery Prize

NEW CARROLLTON, MD — A father from New Carrollton won the Maryland Lottery's $5 million top scratchoff prize, which he'll use to pay off his mortgage and as a college fund for his kids.

For the 50th anniversary of the Maryland Lottery, the agency launched its first $50 scratch-off, 50 Years!, which is the hottest selling scratch-off in the state and has a $5 million top prize.

The player, who is going by the nickname “Happy Dad” to tell his story of winning big, is an enthusiastic scratch-off player and eager to try the anniversary game.

The instant ticket is part of the Lottery’s celebration of 50 years of games, and went on sale Feb. 20 with three $5 million top prizes available. “Happy Dad” is the first person to win that top prize, leaving nine at the $100,000 level, six at the $50,000 level and 80 at the $10,000 level.

The winner claimed his prize on March 13 at Maryland Lottery headquarters in Baltimore. Asked how he reacted when he realized he won, “Happy Dad” said, “Very surprised.” His previous personal best scratch-off prize was about $1,000.

With his winnings, the Prince George’s County resident plans to pay off the mortgage on his house and pay bills. Although that will still leave a lot of money in reserve, “Happy Dad” told the Lottery he has two kids, ages 12 and 14, who will soon need his financial help to go to college.

Once the excitement fades he plans to have a celebration with his family, including a brother who accompanied him to claim his prize.

Liquor City at 9115 Annapolis Road in Lanham, where the scratch-off was purchased, will receive a bonus of $5,000 from the Lottery for selling the winning ticket.