Retired construction worker says occasional lottery purchase turned into a $50,000 payday
BALTIMORE, MD — A Baltimore City man who says he only buys lottery tickets from time to time struck it big after his favorite five-digit Pick 5 number matched the midday drawing, earning him a $50,000 prize.
The retired construction worker claimed his winnings Thursday at Maryland Lottery headquarters in Baltimore.
“I play on and off. Every once and a while, I might buy a ticket when I am at the gas station,” he told lottery officials.
His favorite number, 98701, was selected in the June 21 midday Pick 5 drawing, turning an occasional purchase into the game’s top prize.
The winner said he scanned his ticket at the store and immediately realized he had matched all five digits.
“I couldn’t believe it,” he said.
Rather than splurge, the Baltimore resident said he plans to put the money into savings.
“I’m going to pinch it. I’m not going to spend any of it,” he said.
The winning ticket was purchased at the Sunoco located at 4719 York Road in Baltimore.
For selling the winning ticket, the retailer will receive a $500 bonus, equal to 1% of the prize.
Key Points
- A Baltimore City man won $50,000 playing Pick 5 with his favorite number.
- The winning number, 98701, was drawn in the June 21 midday drawing.
- The ticket was sold at the Sunoco on York Road, earning the retailer a $500 bonus.
