Jackpot winner ‘thought it was a scam.’ But it was real, and he still can’t believe it

A Michigan man was in disbelief after finding out he was randomly chosen as a jackpot winner.

Christopher Cassel, 34, from Fowlerville, was entered into a second-chance game by playing BIG CA$H Second Chance Jackpot games online, according to an April 24 news release by the Michigan Lottery.

“I knew I was earning second chance entries by playing certain online games, but I didn’t think much of it,” Cassel told lottery officials.

But that changed when he received an email.

“I came across an email from the Michigan Lottery informing me I’d won a $250,299 second chance jackpot, and I immediately thought it was a scam. After calling the Lottery I found out it was real, but I still had a hard time believing it,” he told lottery officials.

Cassel said it still feels unreal.

“Winning is very exciting, although I don’t think the reality of it hasn’t fully sunk in yet,” he said.

Cassel said he plans to use his winnings to buy a home and a new truck.

Fowlerville is about a 70-mile drive northwest from Detroit.

Many people can gamble or play games of chance without harm. However, for some, gambling is an addiction that can ruin lives and families.

If you or a loved one shows signs of gambling addiction, you can seek help by calling the national gambling hotline at 1-800-522-4700 or visiting the National Council on Problem Gambling website.

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