The Excitement of a Mega Millions Win in Sugar Land

Excitement and hope filled the air at a Sugar Land convenience store after news broke that a winning Mega Millions ticket worth $800 million was sold there. The lucky ticket was purchased at a Murphy Express located off Highway 90, making it the seventh largest prize in Mega Millions history.

One regular customer, Beaver Knighton, Jr., expressed his mix of happiness for the winner and slight disappointment that it wasn’t him. “Man, somebody is going to enjoy themselves. I wish it was me,” Knighton said. He mentioned that he always buys his Quick Pick tickets at the same store and joked that he must have “slipped” this time.

Another customer inspired by the win, Robert Nieto, shared his plans for the potential windfall. “I would probably divide it between me and my family,” Nieto said, thinking about how the money could positively impact his loved ones.

With the winner’s identity still a mystery, many, like Knighton, have words of encouragement and advice. “Live good, enjoy yourself. I’m looking for retirement pretty soon, that [prize] would’ve been my retirement there,” Knighton shared, hoping the winner savors the moment.

The Texas Lottery confirmed that the winning numbers were 1-2-16-24-66, with the Mega Ball being 6. The winner opted for the cash value option, amounting to an estimated $404 million before taxes. Despite the incredible win, the prize has not yet been claimed, leaving the winner with 180 days from the draw date to come forward and collect their winnings.

For the lucky holder of the winning ticket, Ryan Mindell, executive director of the Texas Lottery, offered some advice. “Be sure to sign it, secure it in a safe place, consult financial and legal advisors, and then contact the Texas Lottery before making your way to Austin to claim the prize,” Mindell said.