Florida couple told they won $4M jackpot. 3 years later, they are homeless, have lost their car, job, and life savings

In March 2023, Florida seniors Fritz (87) and Merdine James (74) received a phone call they thought would change their lives. A woman introduced herself as Susan Smith from Publishers Clearing House and informed them they’d won a sweepstakes worth $4 million, along with two cars and a truck.

This would indeed prove to be a life-changing call, though not in a positive way. “Susan” told them there were just a few simple upfront taxes and fees for the couple to pay before they could receive their jackpot and, for legal reasons, they had to keep the win confidential.