Great Lakes Wire

A Genesee County resident has won a $3 million prize from the Michigan Lottery's Mega Millions game. Pamela Dietrich of Linden had a hunch to play and bought a ticket online, which paid off significantly.

“I don’t consistently play Mega Millions, but I do play from time to time,” said Dietrich. “I had an itch to play for this drawing, so I logged into my Lottery account and purchased a ticket.”

The next day, she was surprised to find an email informing her of her substantial win. “I had a hard time believing it when I saw I had won $3 million! I called the Lottery first thing Monday morning to verify that it was real and schedule an appointment to claim my big prize. I’m still trying to wrap my head around this!” she explained.

Lottery Commissioner Suzanna Shkreli congratulated Dietrich, noting her as the first Michigan winner of the new Mega Millions game. “Congratulations to Pamela, the first player in Michigan to become a millionaire playing the new Mega Millions game,” said Shkreli. The updated game version features improved odds and prizes, adding excitement for players.

Dietrich, 58, correctly matched the five white balls drawn on April 11, which resulted in her $3 million prize thanks to the game's multiplier. She plans to use her winnings for home renovations, settling her vehicle loan, and saving the rest.

Mega Millions tickets, which include a multiplier, can be purchased for $5 each at retailers or online. The lottery game is available in 45 states, Washington D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands.