California Residents Won Millions on Scratchers

Multiple scratcher tickets have produced multi-million dollar payouts for players across California.

Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Gambling

Bold vector illustration of a gold foil scratcher ticket resting on sunlit wood, evoking the optimism of lottery wins. — Multiple California residents have claimed multi-million dollar lottery prizes recently, with top-tier scratcher payouts awarded to players in Bakersfield, Chula Vista, and Shafter. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Ramon Yepez of Bakersfield secured a $7 million prize after purchasing a Crossword Xtreme ticket. Two other significant winning tickets were also recently sold in Chula Vista and Shafter.

Why it matters

These wins highlight the massive payouts currently available through state lottery games. The concentration of top-tier prizes across multiple California cities reflects the high volume of participation in these scratcher games.

The Crossword Xtreme scratcher ticket costs $30, while the Instant Prize Crossword ticket costs $20. These games have recently yielded two $7 million top prizes and one $2 million secondary prize across the state.

The players

Ramon Yepez

He is a California resident who recently won a $7 million grand prize on a scratcher ticket.

The details

Ramon Yepez claimed his $7 million jackpot from a ticket bought at a 7 Eleven located at 3698 Ming Ave in Bakersfield. Simultaneously, a separate $7 million winning ticket was sold in Chula Vista, and a $2 million winner was identified at a Shell-Subway location in Shafter.

September 29, 2026: Article publication date.

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Culture Shift

These lottery wins reflect the ongoing popularity of high-stakes scratcher games within California's broader gambling culture. This trend underscores the role of state-run lotteries as a primary form of recreational gaming for a large demographic of residents.

Purchasing these tickets requires a modest investment of $20 to $30 per play. Residents should remain aware that the high-value top prizes represent a small fraction of total tickets issued across the state.

The takeaway

Large lottery wins often inspire increased participation, but players should treat gaming as a form of entertainment rather than an investment. Always set a strict personal budget for any hobby involving cash stakes to ensure responsible play.