Halftime twist turns lottery ticket into $1m jackpot — Dollars in packs money. American currency business concept with dollars bill banknotes. Jackpot winning cash rain background texture. 3d illustration.

New Jersey dad wins $1 million at Jets game in lottery halftime drawing

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ — A Passaic County father walked away from MetLife Stadium with far more than a Jets victory on Sunday after winning $1 million during a dramatic halftime drawing hosted by the New Jersey Lottery.

Hector Torres was one of 20 finalists selected in the NJ Lottery’s “Another Millionaire” second-chance promotion. Eligible entries were earned by players who purchased Jersey Cash 5 tickets with the XTRA add-on during October. Each finalist received $500 and suite-level tickets to the Jets-Falcons game, where the grand prize winner would be chosen live at midfield.

During the halftime show, all finalists gathered on the field, each assigned a number for a random drawing that would determine who would claim the $1 million top prize. Torres, a veteran utility lineman with over three decades of service, was revealed as the winner, instantly transforming his financial future.

The win comes at a pivotal time for Torres, who has been covering college expenses for his son. With tuition costs and years of overtime behind him, the sudden prize provides a major boost to long-term financial security.

Torres, a Queens native who now resides in Passaic County, was among thousands of fans watching the Jets defeat the Falcons. But while the home team scored a win, the biggest celebration of the day came as lottery officials confirmed the identity of their newest millionaire live on the field.

The “Another Millionaire” promotion has become a fan-favorite second-chance opportunity, offering players more than just ticket winnings—this time turning a routine lottery purchase into a life-changing payday.

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Key Points

Passaic County man won $1 million during NJ Lottery’s halftime promotion at MetLife Stadium
Winner was one of 20 finalists chosen through October entries in the Jersey Cash 5 XTRA second-chance drawing
The prize helps cover family college expenses and offers newfound financial relief

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Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

As a member of the Shore News Network editorial team, Quigley works closely with public officials, community leaders, first responders, and local organizations to provide factual coverage of breaking news, municipal government, public policy, and events affecting New Jersey residents. Her work highlights both major developments and the local stories that shape communities across the state.

Quigley is committed to responsible journalism, emphasizing accuracy, source verification, and transparency in every story she reports. She strives to present information in a clear and accessible manner, helping readers better understand the issues, decisions, and events that impact their daily lives.

Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

Experience and interests: Criminal Justice, Business, Animal Care, Entertainment, Lottery News, Local News