Upper Marlboro, MD – A misplaced Mega Millions ticket set the stage for a surprise $50,000 Bonus Match 5 win after a nephew decided to try a new game earlier this month.
He purchased a replacement ticket on November 7 and matched all five numbers drawn.
The win came on his first attempt at the game.
Key Points
- Upper Marlboro pair won $50,000 on a Bonus Match 5 ticket purchased November 7
- The winning ticket was bought after a lost Mega Millions ticket prompted a switch
- The winners plan to save the money and help with family expenses
The nephew said he realized he had misplaced his Mega Millions ticket before the draw and opted instead to buy into Bonus Match 5, a game he had never played.
He put down $5, which provided seven number combinations due to the game’s multi-combination discount, and one of those sets hit for the top prize.
He claimed the winnings on November 10 with his aunt, who shares the prize.
First-time play turns into top-tier win
The nephew said he was surprised the very first Bonus Match 5 ticket he tried produced a top-tier result.
He noted that he usually gravitates toward casino games but feels his luck shifted after the experience.
The pair said they intend to place most of the winnings into savings.
Retailer awarded bonus for selling winning ticket
The winning ticket was sold at the Wawa at 10050 Baltimore Avenue in College Park.
The retailer will receive a $500 bonus for selling a top-prize Bonus Match 5 ticket.
The aunt and nephew said the prize will help with family finances and allow them to treat a new grandchild.