The persistent and now-fortunate San Jose lottery player who won $247 million in a Mega Millions drawing in October officially came forward publicly this week, according to the California Lottery.
Edward Lojewski told lottery officials that each Friday, he would go to breakfast, see friends and head to the 7-Eleven located at 1413 Kooser Road to purchase two tickets each for that weekend’s Powerball, Mega Millions and Super Lotto Plus drawings.
On Oct. 15, that weekly ritual became a investment with an astounding return. Lojewski’s life changed in an instant.
“I watched the news and saw the winning retailer and knew that was where I bought my tickets,” Lojewski told the lottery. “As soon as I saw I matched the first two numbers, I knew I won.”
Lojewski declined to make himself available for any other media interviews.
The jackpot that week was $494 million. Lojewski took home $247 million — before taxes — and shared the pot with another player in Florida.
The owner of the lucky store scored $1 million just for selling the winning ticket.
Lojewski says he plans to invest, take care of family and donate to charity with his winnings.
“I’m at the point in my life where I don’t need toys. I have everything I need,” he said. “I’ve been married a long time, but I love my wife more and more every day!”
Related Articles
After selling $2 billion lottery ticket, ‘lucky’ Altadena store sees huge demand for Friday Mega Millions drawing
New Mega Millions jackpot of $1.35 billion is game’s 2nd highest
Mega Millions jackpot soars to nearly $1 billion after no winner in Tuesday night’s drawing
Mega Millions lottery jackpot expected to reach $785 million
Mega Millions jackpot up to $640 million after no big winner, but Glendale ticket buyer gets close