California’s $15 Million Lottery Scratcher Winner: A Life-Changing Moment

In a stunning turn of events, a Southern California man, Israel Martin Rodriguez, recently became a multi-millionaire after winning the first-ever top prize in a special anniversary edition of the California Lottery scratcher game.

The grand prize of around $15 million was won with a ticket commemorating the 40th anniversary of the California Lottery.

This life-changing event has not only put Rodriguez in the spotlight but also brought attention to the ongoing excitement surrounding California’s lottery system.

The Big Win: Israel Martin Rodriguez Claims His Fortune

The winning ticket was sold in February 2025 at a 7-Eleven convenience store located at the corner of Oxnard Street and Woodman Avenue in Van Nuys, California.

According to a California Lottery news release, Rodriguez was the lucky winner who scratched off the grand prize, and the moment became an unforgettable experience for him.

The game, named “40 Years of Play!” was created to celebrate the 40th anniversary of California voters establishing the lottery in 1985.

Rodriguez’s win is a significant event, as it marks the first time the top prize of this scratcher game has been claimed.

However, his win wasn’t the only exciting news from the lottery’s 40th-anniversary game.

Shortly after Rodriguez’s claim, another top prize for the same game was sold, and the California Lottery officials have announced they will soon release the name of that winner and the store location that sold that ticket.

The 7-Eleven store where Rodriguez purchased his ticket is also set to receive a $75,000 bonus as a result of selling the winning scratcher, which adds another layer of excitement for local retailers involved in lottery ticket sales.

A Special Scratcher Game for a Special Anniversary

The “40 Years of Play!” scratcher game was released by the California Lottery on January 20, 2025, in honor of the 40th anniversary of the lottery’s creation.

The game offers a wide range of prizes, with the top prize reaching a remarkable $15 million.

Along with the grand prize, the game includes additional big prizes, including $100,000, $40,000, and $10,000, as well as smaller prizes.

The overall odds of winning any prize in the game are less than 1 in 3, making it a thrilling opportunity for California residents to participate in.

Initially, the scratcher game featured five grand prizes, meaning that as of now, three top prizes remain unclaimed.

This exciting prospect adds to the sense of anticipation for future winners, as the game continues to captivate the interest of lottery players across the state.

The California Lottery created the game with the intention of celebrating the legacy of the Lottery system, which has played a pivotal role in funding education and providing additional resources to the state over the past four decades.

The game’s design and high-prize offerings reflect the continued popularity of the lottery among Californians and the positive impact it has had on public education funding.

Where to Buy Lottery Tickets in California

For those eager to try their luck, the “40 Years of Play!” scratcher can be purchased at various retail locations throughout California.

Tickets are available at gas stations, grocery stores, and convenience stores like 7-Eleven, where Rodriguez made his purchase.

Some airport terminals also sell lottery tickets, making it easy for travelers to participate while on the go.

Additionally, residents in some states and territories across the U.S. can purchase tickets digitally through the Jackpocket app.

This official digital lottery courier service allows users to pick their lottery game, select their numbers, and place their order from the comfort of their home or phone.

Jackpocket is available in several states, including Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, and Washington D.C., among others.

This innovative service has made lottery ticket purchasing more accessible, offering a convenient way for players to participate in their favorite games without needing to visit a retail store.

The Impact of the Lottery in California

The California Lottery has been a vital part of the state’s educational system for the past 40 years.

Since its inception, the lottery has contributed billions of dollars in funding for public schools, universities, and other educational initiatives.

The revenue generated from lottery ticket sales is allocated to the California School Accounting Fund, which supports various educational programs, from K-12 schools to higher education institutions.

This funding has helped improve education across the state, providing essential resources for students and teachers alike.

While the primary focus of the lottery is on education, the excitement and potential for life-changing wins, like Rodriguez’s $15 million prize, have made the lottery a beloved institution in California.

For many residents, the chance to win big is a fun and hopeful part of life, with the possibility of financial freedom and the realization of long-held dreams.

The Future of California’s Lottery

With three grand prizes still up for grabs in the “40 Years of Play!” scratcher game, there is much more excitement ahead for California Lottery players.

As the game continues to unfold, it’s likely that more winners will emerge, adding to the growing sense of anticipation around the lottery’s anniversary celebrations.

The California Lottery’s innovative scratcher games, coupled with the ongoing success of its operations, show no signs of slowing down.

As the years go by, it’s clear that the California Lottery will continue to play an essential role in the state’s educational system while offering residents the thrill of life-changing prizes.

For those considering taking a chance at winning big, it’s clear that the California Lottery remains a staple of excitement, providing new opportunities to claim fortune with every scratch.

As the lottery system moves into its 40th year, it’s evident that its impact on education and the lives of its winners will continue to resonate throughout California for many years to come.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Fun, Hope, and Opportunity

Israel Martin Rodriguez’s $15 million win has brought renewed attention to the California Lottery, celebrating both the excitement of scratcher games and the important role the lottery plays in supporting education in the state.

As Californians continue to participate in lottery games, the hopes of future winners remain high, with the possibility of life-changing prizes always just a scratch away.

Whether you’re an experienced player or new to the game, the California Lottery offers a chance for everyone to dream big and, perhaps, one day become the next lucky winner.

As the 40th anniversary celebrations continue, the excitement and opportunity that the lottery provides will remain a central part of California’s culture for years to come.