Man Sues Ex-Girlfriend Over $5 Million Lottery Prize
A legal battle has emerged in Manitoba, Canada, involving a $5 million lottery prize after a man alleges his ex-girlfriend cashed in the winning ticket and cut off all communication.
Background of the Dispute
Lawrence Campbell, a resident of Winnipeg, initiated a lawsuit against his former partner Krystal Ann McKay, as well as the Western Canada Lottery Corporation and Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries. The suit was filed in the Court of King’s Bench, seeking the full jackpot amount from the Lotto 6/49 draw.
The conflict began in January 2024 when Campbell purchased a Lotto 6/49 ticket from a Winnipeg convenience store. At that time, Campbell and McKay were in a relationship. He gave McKay the ticket while he had lost his wallet. Later, Campbell discovered the ticket at a friend’s place and scanned it to find it was the winning ticket.
Claim Process and Prize Collection
Campbell and McKay verified the ticket at a Shoppers Drug Mart with a recorded video. However, the Western Canada Lottery Corporation informed Campbell that he needed a valid government-issued ID to claim the prize, which he did not have. Consequently, officials advised McKay to claim the winnings on behalf of both.
On January 30, 2024, McKay publicly accepted a cheque for $5 million during a press conference. At the event, both acknowledged the ticket was a birthday gift from Campbell. Following the collection of the prize, McKay deposited the funds into her bank account due to Campbell not having one.
Allegations of Disappearance and Legal Action
In the days following the prize collection, Campbell alleges McKay ceased communication abruptly. He reportedly found her with another man, where she informed him their relationship had ended and subsequently blocked his phone number and social media accounts. Additionally, McKay is said to have obtained a protection order against Campbell.
Campbell’s lawyer has criticized the lottery corporation for not cautioning Campbell about the risks of allowing another person to claim the prize. He described the case as a confrontation between personal justice and the institutional system governing lottery claims.
Current Status and Responses
McKay has denied the allegations and is preparing a formal defense. The case remains unresolved in court, with the claims yet to be examined judicially.
Summary of Key Facts
- $5 million lottery prize from Lotto 6/49 in January 2024
- Campbell bought the ticket; McKay claimed the prize
- McKay deposited winnings; Campbell alleges she cut off contact afterward
- Lawsuit filed against McKay and lottery organization seeking full jackpot
- Dispute highlights risks in claiming lottery winnings jointly without proper safeguards
The lawsuit underscores the importance of clear ownership and communication when managing significant lottery winnings to avoid legal complications.
