PHOENIX (April 2, 2012) – A Phoenix resident, Alex A. Defiore, claimed the $6.4 million The Pick jackpot today from the drawing on Saturday, March 31. The Pick is Arizona’s own jackpot game.
The winning Quick Pick ticket was purchased by Defiore, along with four other tickets, at a Circle K located at 6322 North 12th Street in Phoenix.
Defiore discovered he held the winning ticket on Sunday, just two days before his birthday. He tried calling his wife five times that morning to tell her the good news, but could only leave her messages since she was still asleep. Defiore said that he is happier for his wife than for himself, because the win will enable her to retire.
Defiore chose the cash option and received more than $4.1 million before taxes.
“It was an honor to award such a hefty birthday gift to Mr. Defiore at the Arizona Lottery office today,” said Karen Bach, assistant director of budget, products and communications for the Arizona Lottery. “This is shaping up to be a big week for Arizona Lottery winners, as we are also expecting to award Arizona’s three $250,000 Mega Millions winners with their prizes this week.”