A Newport News woman has won a $3.9 million prize after playing a Virginia Lottery instant game from her bed, state lottery officials confirmed. The winner, who elected to keep her identity private under Virginia law, said she decided to try the Banker's Bonus game before turning in for the night and discovered she had captured the jackpot.
How she won
The player used the Virginia Lottery’s online options — the app and website that offer instant games in addition to traditional ticket sales. Banker's Bonus is among a number of online instant games where the top prize increases as more people play. The lottery reported the odds on the game as 1 in 3.90 per play.
- Prize: $3,900,000
- Game: Banker's Bonus (online instant game)
- Odds per play: 1 in 3.90
- Claim status: Winner chose to remain anonymous
Reaction and local context
The winner described the moment she realized she had won as loud and unmistakable. In remarks relayed by lottery officials she said her reaction startled her family.
"I scared my children," the winner shared. "I just can't believe it!"
Virginia law allows any lottery prizewinner to claim a prize anonymously, and the state honors that choice by not publicizing a claimant’s name when anonymity is requested. For Newport News residents, the event highlights the convenience and reach of the state lottery’s digital offerings, which allow players to participate from home or on the go.
Quick facts about the game
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Game name | Banker's Bonus (online instant) |
| Top prize | $3,900,000 |
| Odds per play | 1 in 3.90 |
| Where to play | Virginia Lottery app and valottery.com |
Lottery officials confirmed the win but did not provide the winner’s name. The state lottery continues to offer both in-person and online games, and this win underscores how digital sales have become a regular part of Virginia’s gaming landscape.
For winners who choose anonymity, the Lottery’s policy prevents public disclosure of identifying information. The quick announcement serves as a reminder to local players that large payouts can happen online as well as at retail locations.
