Search KelownaNow
The winner of last week's $450 million Mega Millions jackpot in Florida has stepped forward to claim his prize.
Shane Missler, 20, of Port Richey is the recipient of the jackpot draw held on Jan. 5.
At 11:33 a.m. that night, he posted on Facebook:
"Oh. My. God."
He proceeded to receive a series of warnings on his post saying "Watch out for false friends," and "You seem like a smart kid. Be careful."
Last night, he sent out a message:
"Thank you everyone for the kind words. I am truly grateful and appreciative."
Missler says he's already had fake social media accounts surface, both on Instagram and Twitter.
"If you're tuning in for this journey, just know...it's only the beginning," he said.
Missler has decided to opt for the lump sum of $281 million.
As far as what he'll do with all that cash, Missler told Mega Millions, "I'm only 20, but I hope to use it to pursue a variety of passions, help my family and do some good for humanity."
Missler admitted that he had a "feeling" that he might win.
Upon hearing the news, he called his brother and then told his dad over coffee the next morning.
If you get value from KelownaNow and believe local independent media is important to our community we ask that you please consider subscribing to our daily newsletter.
If you appreciate what we do, we ask that you consider supporting our local independent news platform.