Gary Eckhout of Lake City wasted no time in claiming his prize from the January 18 Mega Millions drawing. Michigan Lottery headquarters opens at 7:45 a.m. and Eckhout was the first player to be served.   

Erkhout traveled two and a half hours to Lansing from his home in Missaukee County. The $250,000 prize that was waiting for him made it worth every minute of the drive. This lucky player intends on using a portion of his winnings to pay off his mortgage.

This winning Easy-Pick Mega Millions ticket was purchased at the Wesco #34, located at 1548 N. Mitchell St. in Cadillac.