Kewanee Man Scores $1 Million Lottery Win Just Before His Birthday

A Kewanee man got the ultimate early birthday surprise after winning the $1 million top prize on a $5 Onyx Instant Ticket.

🎉 A birthday gift to remember

“This win came at the perfect time,” said Steve, whose last name was not released. “It’s hands down the best birthday present I’ve ever received.”

The jackpot came only weeks after he narrowly missed another big payday. Steve recalled choosing between two $5 scratch-off tickets. He picked one that wasn't a winner, while his coworker bought the other ticket and walked away with $10,000.

When Steve returned to the same store, he mentioned the story to an employee. The worker jokingly asked if the next ticket would be the lucky one. Taking it as a good sign, Steve bought another $5 Onyx ticket—and this time, it turned him into a millionaire.

What's next for the winner?

Steve already has plans for his newfound fortune, including:

• 🚗 Buying another vehicle
• 🏡 Building a new garage and tackling home upgrades
• ☀️ Spending more winter time in Arizona with his son

The winning ticket was purchased at Beck's North in Kewanee. As a bonus for selling the jackpot ticket, the retailer will receive $10,000, equal to 1% of the prize.

The Illinois Lottery says players have already claimed more than $897 million in Instant Ticket prizes in 2026, with nearly 33 million winning tickets sold statewide. Instant games range from $1 to $50 and are available at thousands of retailers across Illinois.