Tyler Larson, of Escanaba, holding his big check for winning a top prize in the Michigan Lottery’s Black & Gold instant game. (Photo courtesy of the Michigan Lottery.)

A 20-year-old Escanaba man, Tyler Larson, struck gold with the Michigan Lottery’s Black & Gold instant game, claiming a top prize of $500,000.

Larson said at first he couldn’t believe his luck and checked his ticket several times before realizing he actually was holding a ticket worth $500,000!

Larson already has big plans for his big prize. He said he plans to buy a truck and a house and then invest the remaining amount.

Larson bought his $10 winning ticket at Elmer’s County Market located at 412 N. Lincoln Rd. in Escanaba. He claimed his $500,000 prize Monday at Lottery headquarters.