Zach Salmen smiles after collecting his $100,000 prize.

A 23-year-old St. Joseph County man says karma led to him winning $100,000 playing the Michigan Lottery’s $100 Grand Cashword instant game.

Zach Salmen, or Three Rivers, bought his winning $100 Grand Cashword ticket at Paul’s Pantry, located at 261 East Michigan Avenue in Three Rivers.

“I stopped to grab a few things at Paul’s and I had $3 left from my $20,” said Salmen “So, I decided to buy a $100 Grand Cashword ticket.”

Salmen scratched the ticket after returning home and was stunned.

“I didn’t even bother scratching the bottom card when I uncovered 10 words on the top,” said Salmen. “I went back to the Paul’s to scan it and see if it was a winner.

Salmen’s winning ticket.

“Once I confirmed it was a winner, I folded it up and put it in my wallet and that’s where it’s been until today.”

Salmen visited Lottery headquarters Thursday to claim his big prize. With his winnings he plans to help some family members, take a trip to Myrtle Beach, buy a new vehicle, and then invest the remainder.

“I’m overwhelmed. This is going to help me get back on my feet,” said Salmen.

Players have won nearly $18.6 million playing $100 Grand Cashword, which launched in March 2016. Each $3 ticket offers players a chance to win prizes ranging from $3 up to $100,000. More than $8.5 million in prizes remain, including two $100,000 top prizes and 68 $1,000 prizes.

Lottery instant games may be purchased at 11,000 retailers across the state.

In 2016, Lottery players won nearly $817 million playing instant games.