Canadian Man Sues Ex-Girlfriend for Lottery Winnings Dispute
In a remarkable case from Winnipeg, a Canadian man has initiated legal proceedings against his former girlfriend, alleging she absconded with lottery winnings totaling CA$5 million (approximately Rs 30 crore) following a romantic relationship.
Background of the Lottery Win
Lawrence Campbell, the plaintiff, purchased the winning lottery ticket in 2024 but was unable to claim the prize personally due to the absence of valid identification. Acting on guidance from lottery officials, he entrusted his then-girlfriend, Krystal Ann McKay, to collect the winnings on his behalf from the Western Canada Lottery Corporation (WCLC).
The couple had been in a committed relationship for over a year and a half, living together at the time. With Mr. Campbell lacking a personal bank account, Ms. McKay was authorized to deposit the lottery funds under her name.
Public Celebrations and Initial Trust
The couple publicly acknowledged the win by recording a video at a Shoppers Drug Mart and taking photos with an oversized cheque. The lottery win was portrayed as a birthday gift from Mr. Campbell to Ms. McKay, despite her subdued demeanor in the photos.
Mr. Campbell recalled that Ms. McKay had been urging him to purchase a lottery ticket for weeks, and the decision to buy one came spontaneously during a drive.
The Disappearance and Legal Action
Within days of the prize collection, Ms. McKay disappeared from their shared residence and ceased all communication. Upon locating her, Mr. Campbell alleges she was found in the company of another man.
The lawsuit describes her actions as a deliberate severance of contact, including blocking Mr. Campbell on social media and obtaining a protection order against him.
Ms. McKay has denied all accusations through her legal representation.
Claims Against Lottery Officials and Legal Filing
Mr. Campbell’s lawsuit, filed at Manitoba’s Court of King's Bench, also names the WCLC and Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries. The allegations include negligence and inadequate guidance by these agencies, specifically their failure to warn about risks when someone else claims a lottery prize on behalf of the actual winner.
The plaintiff’s attorney characterized the case as a challenge to how lottery claims are administered, highlighting systemic issues in the state-owned lottery system.
Summary of Key Points
- Lottery Prize: CA$5 million (approx. Rs 30 crore)
- Location: Winnipeg, Canada
- Parties: Lawrence Campbell (plaintiff), Krystal Ann McKay (defendant)
- Legal Action: Filed in Manitoba’s Court of King's Bench
- Claims: Misappropriation of lottery funds, inadequate advisory by lottery officials
This case underscores the importance of proper procedures and safeguards when claiming lottery prizes, especially in situations involving third-party collection.
