Vancouver couple wins $1-million Lotto Max prize, plans to help family
Vancouver residents Imelda and Ruben P. won $1 million on the Jan. 9 Lotto Max draw after scanning a ticket at Metropolis at Metrotown. They say they intend to help family.
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By Torontoer Staff
Vancouver residents Imelda and Ruben P. won a $1-million prize in the Jan. 9, 2026 Lotto Max draw after scanning a ticket during a walk at Metropolis at Metrotown in Burnaby. The pair bought the ticket at the Shoppers Drug Mart inside the mall.
They learned the result while taking a break during their walk, and announced the win to their daughter, who happened to be passing by shortly afterwards. The couple say they have not yet finalised plans for the money but want to help their family.
How they found out
Imelda said the moment was simple and immediate. They scanned the ticket at the mall and realised the win on the spot. Emotions followed quickly, with the family learning the news within minutes.
We were at Metrotown when we first scanned the ticket. We were both just so happy!
Imelda
Ruben described the feeling as joyful and still settling in. Their initial reaction was to share the news with family, rather than make immediate financial decisions.
We are really happy.
Ruben
What they plan to do with the money
Imelda and Ruben say their priority is supporting family members. They have not announced specific plans, and say they are taking time to decide.
A sudden windfall can change short- and long-term options. Financial planners generally recommend pausing on big purchases, assembling a team of professionals, and setting clear priorities before making large commitments.
- Meet a certified financial planner to map out immediate and long-term priorities.
- Set up an emergency fund and pay down high-interest debt.
- Discuss wishes with family, and consider documentation such as wills and powers of attorney.
- Create a budget for gifts and support to family members to avoid overextending.
- Consult legal and tax professionals before making large transfers or investments.
Claiming a prize and tax basics
Lottery prize procedures vary by province. In British Columbia, winners of large prizes typically must contact the provincial lottery corporation to complete the claim. Winners should keep their ticket safe and prepare identification when contacting officials.
In Canada lottery winnings are not considered taxable income for federal purposes. That does not remove the need to consult a tax adviser when investing or transferring sizeable sums, because future income generated from those funds may be taxable.
A streak of big wins
B.C. players have featured in other recent jackpot stories, including a player who said a windfall will let him retire to the beach, and another who won while watching his favourite hockey team. The province’s recent winners underscore the unpredictable nature of Lotto Max draws.
Imelda and Ruben’s win is the latest example of how a routine errand or walk can turn into a life-changing moment. For now, they are focusing on family and taking time to plan the next steps.
The couple plan to move deliberately, meeting with advisers and their family before announcing any major purchases or gifts. They say the joy of sharing the news with their daughter remains one of the most memorable parts of the experience.
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