PITTSBURGH PA — June 12 2025 — A US Army service member with 25 years of military service has won a staggering 13 million playing the Pennsylvania Lottery’s Jackpot Spectacular just hours after creating his online lottery account .
A Lucky Strike on Day One
Christopher Lehman who recently moved from New Hampshire to Beaver County Pennsylvania registered for a PA Lottery online account on May 30 Intending to play responsibly he allocated around 100 for the game Trusting his instincts that the progressive prize was close to hitting Lehman played in 5 increments .
With only 5 left in his account Lehman hit the jackpot totaling 1351472 .
Celebrations and Ceremony
On June 10 Pennsylvania Lottery officials held a recognition ceremony at their Pittsburgh Area Office to honor Lehman Secretary of Revenue Pat Browne and Executive Director Drew Svitko were present congratulating him alongside his wife Judith .
Also Read : Mapping US Troops and Military Bases in the Middle East
“Practical” Plans and Big Changes
Despite his extensive military experience Lehman admitted he was initially skeptical .
“I didn’t know if it was going to be real… The money is in fact real and in the bank”
Choosing financial prudence he paid off his mortgage bought a new truck and invested the remaining winnings for long term security .
A Family Celebration Ahead
The timing of the win was especially meaningful Lehman’s youngest daughter is graduating from Army Basic Training this week The win he said adds another reason for the family to celebrate a legacy of service and achievement .
Online Play Real Rewards
Jackpot Spectacular is a connect style online game offered by the Pennsylvania Lottery It features multipliers bonus rounds and a multistate progressive jackpot that continues to grow until won Since the launch of online lottery games in 2018 the Pennsylvania Lottery has contributed over 500 million in proceeds to senior assistance programs .
How Winnings Are Claimed and Taxed
- Under Pennsylvania Lottery regulations
- Prizes over 600 require a claim form
- Federal taxes are withheld from winnings above 5000
Pennsylvania does not impose state tax on lottery winnings for residents although local taxes such as Philadelphia’s School Income Tax may apply .
Looking Ahead
With part of the winnings already secured through smart decisions Lehman and his wife intend to use the rest to continue building wealth Offering advice for others Lehman said .
“Grow the wealth and take care of your family”
His victory is among the largest online jackpots in the state’s history marking a remarkable moment for a soldier and a family rooted in dedication and discipline .