Patrick Gordiski, a retired firefighter and 9/11 first responder, recently won the top prize of $500,000 playing the Connecticut Lottery’s “$500,000 CA$HWORD” game. The winning ticket was purchased at Byram Smoke Shop on Mill Street in Greenwich. For selling the winning ticket, Byram Smoke Shop will receive a $5,000 bonus.
Gordiski is a regular lottery player and served with the Greenwich Fire Department for 50 years. He spent time as a first responder at Ground Zero following the September 11 attacks. His son also serves as a firefighter in Greenwich.
The Connecticut Lottery Corporation (CLC) highlights that players must be 18 or older to purchase lottery tickets and provides resources for problem gambling through their helpline and website.
In fiscal year 2024, CLC reported over $1.1 billion in prizes awarded to players and more than $85 million earned by retailers in commissions. The corporation contributed $387 million to Connecticut’s General Fund, supporting various public services.
For more information about the Connecticut Lottery or assistance with gambling issues, individuals can visit ctlottery.org or contact their helpline.
