Army recruiter wins huge Virginia lottery. His son thought it was April Fools’ prank
When Sgt. Gary Williams woke up on April Fools’ Day, he immediately checked the numbers from the previous night’s Virginia Lottery drawing.
His numbers matched up, making him the winner of the $143,553 jackpot in the Cash 5 with EZ Match drawing, according to an April 10 news release from the Virginia Lottery.
The drawing was actually Friday, March 31, but Williams told officials he didn’t see his prize until the next day.
When Williams told his son about his prize, he didn’t believe it.
“My son thought it was an April Fools’ joke!” Williams told officials.
The U.S. Army recruiter from Fort Belvoir said he plans to put his winnings toward his retirement, according to officials. He bought his winning ticket at Woodland Exxon in Alexandria, about 8 miles south of Washington, D.C.
Fort Belvoir is about 20 miles south of Washington, D.C.
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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