Anonymous winner in Roanoke claims first top prize in Power Payout Multiplier scratcher game
Roanoke, Virginia – A Roanoke resident has kicked off the year with a life-changing surprise after winning the $1 million top prize on a Power Payout Multiplier scratch-off ticket from the Virginia Lottery. The man, who chose to remain anonymous under Virginia law, purchased his lucky ticket at the One Stop Market located at 4331 Williamson Road in Roanoke.
“I couldn’t concentrate on work”
After realizing he had won, the man admitted the excitement was overwhelming. “I couldn’t concentrate on work,” he told Lottery officials. Instead of revealing his identity to the public, he exercised his right under Virginia law, which allows winners of $1 million or more to stay anonymous.
The winner had a choice between receiving the full $1 million as an annuity over 30 years or a one-time cash payout of $476,000 before taxes. He chose the lump sum and already has big plans for the money, telling Lottery staff that he intends to buy a house.
Only One Winner So Far
Power Payout Multiplier is one of many scratch-off games offered by the Virginia Lottery. It includes prizes ranging from $10 to $1 million, with three top prizes available in total. This recent Roanoke win marks the first claimed $1 million prize, leaving two top prizes still up for grabs. The odds of winning the top prize are 1 in 816,000, and the overall odds of winning any prize in the game are 1 in 4.14.
A Win for the Winner and for Virginia Schools
While the anonymous man celebrates his victory, local students also benefit. All profits from the Virginia Lottery are directed to K-12 education in the Commonwealth. In Fiscal Year 2025, the Lottery generated over $901 million for public schools, accounting for about 10 percent of Virginia’s total K-12 school budget.
As for Roanoke City specifically, the school division received more than $24 million in Lottery funds during the last fiscal year, reinforcing the idea that playing the Lottery not only offers a chance to win but also helps the community.
For more details about Lottery proceeds and how they benefit schools, visit the Virginia Lottery’s Giving Back page. If you or someone you know needs help with gambling, the Virginia Problem Gambling Helpline is available 24/7 at 888-532-3500.
