Canadian lottery winners ready to spend time with kids after 'unreal' jackpot win

Two Canadian lottery winners are ready to look for their dream home after their recent seven-figure jackpot win.

Lillooet, B.C., residents Rene L. and Brittany C. won $2.5 million on the Lotto Max draw held on Jan. 31, 2026.

The couple split the $5-million Classic Jackpot with another ticket bought in Quebec, with both tickets matching all six numbers according to PlayNow.com.

“My first thought was, ‘No!’ and then I jumped up and showed Brittany,” said Rene of the moment that he learned they won.

“Brittany thought I was playing a trick on her and wanted to go to the store to check if it was real.”

Irish Mae Silvestre/Daily Hive

Rene and Brittany took the ticket to the same Pharmasave on Main Street in Lillooet, where it was purchased, to verify the win. Once it had been double checked, the good news finally began to sink in.

“It feels unreal,” explained Brittany, on how it feels to win such a big prize.

The B.C. couple have shared news of the windfall with a number of close family members and friends, and celebrated the jackpot with a special dinner for two.

They also shared some plans they have for the $2.5-million jackpot, including paying off their mortgage and “house hunting” for their dream home.

However, what Rene and Brittany are looking forward to most is financial freedom.

“We can enjoy life and spend more time with our kids,” added Brittany.

B.C. residents have been lucky in the jackpot lately, with two lottery winners walking on cloud nine after a stroll in their favourite mall ended with a seven-figure jackpot win.

A Canadian dad is also ready to retire to the beach after his shocking lottery win.

All forms of gambling, including the lottery, involve risk and outcomes are based on chance. Individuals are strongly advised to gamble responsibly. If you are experiencing any signs of gambling-related issues, check out these resources.