Batches with dollars. Heaps of paper money packs. Million jackpot winning in lottery, symbol of riches and luxury. American (usa) dollar currency. Finances and banking concept. 3d rendered raster.
Batches with dollars. Heaps of paper money packs. Million jackpot winning in lottery, symbol of riches and luxury. American (USA) dollar currency. Finances and banking concept. 3d rendered raster.

Grandmother thought she’d won $30 until one extra zero changed everything

·
By
June 4, 2026
1 min read

Upper Marlboro player nearly missed a $30K top prize hiding in plain sight

UPPER MARLBORO, Md. — An Upper Marlboro grandmother who believed she had won just $30 on a Maryland Lottery ticket got the surprise of a lifetime when a closer look revealed a $30,000 top prize.

The Prince George’s County resident, a grandmother of 10 and retired school system employee, claimed the prize June 3 at Maryland Lottery headquarters in Baltimore.

The lucky winner purchased the ticket during a visit to a 7-Eleven on Watkins Park Drive in Upper Marlboro.

According to Maryland Lottery officials, she originally planned to buy a $10 scratch-off ticket. When none were available, she opted to purchase three $3 tickets instead.

The first two tickets were not winners, but when she scanned the third using the Maryland Lottery app, she initially thought she had won $30.

Then something caught her attention.

“That has too many zeros,” she recalled thinking.

Still uncertain, she asked a store clerk to scan the ticket. The result confirmed she was holding a $30,000 top-prize winner.

The winner said she plans to use the money to pay off debts and purchase new bedroom furniture.

The 7-Eleven that sold the winning ticket will receive a $300 bonus from the Maryland Lottery.

Key Points

  • An Upper Marlboro grandmother claimed a $30,000 top-prize lottery win.
  • She initially believed the ticket was worth only $30 until noticing an extra zero.
  • The winner plans to use the money to pay off debts and buy new furniture.
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Chris Quigley
About the Author

Chris Quigley

Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

As a member of the Shore News Network editorial team, Quigley works closely with public officials, community leaders, first responders, and local organizations to provide factual coverage of breaking news, municipal government, public policy, and events affecting New Jersey residents. Her work highlights both major developments and the local stories that shape communities across the state.

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