Ten matching words on one puzzle delivered the Maryland Lottery game’s top prize while the winner plans to put the money into savings
WINDSOR MILL, MD – A retired Windsor Mill diesel mechanic randomly picked a $10 crossword scratch-off and ended up uncovering 10 matching words worth a $100,000 top prize.
The Maryland Lottery winner purchased the $100,000 Crossword 9th Edition ticket at Columbia Fine Wine and Spirits, 10400 Shaker Drive in Columbia.
Rather than setting out to buy that specific game, the winner made a random selection that led him to the ticket.
When he played the scratch-off, puzzle No. 3 produced 10 matching words, delivering the game’s $100,000 top prize.
The retired mechanic still spends time working on and restoring antique cars for shows.
Despite the six-figure win, he does not have plans for a major purchase. He told the Maryland Lottery he intends to save the money.
Columbia Fine Wine and Spirits will receive a $1,000 bonus for selling the $100,000 top-prize ticket.
The $100,000 Crossword 9th Edition launched in August 2025 with nine $100,000 top prizes. Following the Windsor Mill man’s win, one of those original top prizes remained unclaimed.
The Maryland Lottery launched the game’s 10th edition in August, with nine additional $100,000 top prizes available. None of those top prizes had been claimed when the Lottery announced the Windsor Mill winner.
Key Points
- A retired Windsor Mill diesel mechanic won a $100,000 top prize on a $10 Maryland Lottery crossword scratch-off.
- The randomly selected ticket delivered the prize after the winner uncovered 10 matching words in one of its puzzles.
- Columbia Fine Wine and Spirits in Columbia sold the winning ticket and will receive a $1,000 bonus.