An Alpena County woman found she might have the most honest nephew in the state after winning $300,000 playing the Michigan Lottery’s Poker Multiplier instant game.

“I was down state visiting family for a couple days, and when I got back home I had a message from my nephew that I’d forgotten a couple of Lottery tickets,” said the winner, who chose to remain anonymous. “I called him back and told him to scratch the tickets off. I never imagined one might be a huge winner.

“He called me back and told me it was a $300,000 winner. Of course, I didn’t believe him because our whole family is full of jokesters. He sent me a photo of the ticket, and I was floored when I saw he was telling me the truth!”

The 71-year-old player bought her winning ticket at the Exxon gas station, located at 22422 Wick Road in Taylor.

The player met her nephew in Lansing recently to claim the big prize.

“I asked him to keep the ticket safe for me until we could meet here so I could get my money,” said the player. “I’m going to buy myself a new car, help out my family – including my nephew – and then save the remainder.

“Winning is a bit nerve-racking, but I’m so fortunate I won because it means my family will be a little more comfortable now.”

Players have won more than $8 million playing Poker Multiplier, which launched in August. Each $5 ticket offers players a chance to win prizes ranging from $5 up to $300,000. More than $13 million in prizes remain, including two $300,000 top prizes and 47 $1,000 prizes.

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

In 2017, Lottery players won more than $960 million playing instant games.