Maryland man’s switch to family birthdays brings $50K Powerball prize

LANDOVER, Md. — A Prince George’s County man struck it big in the December 2 Powerball drawing, winning $50,000 after swapping quick-pick numbers for a set based on family birthdates.

The Lanham resident, a social worker, said he immediately recognized the winning numbers when checking the results online. “It was such a shock. I called my wife to tell her. She had to sit down to keep from falling,” he shared with Lottery officials.

The winning ticket was purchased at Landover Hills Exxon on Annapolis Road during a routine fuel stop. The player admitted he hadn’t yet bought his ticket for the drawing and was relieved he remembered while at the gas station.

The winner plans to use his prize to pay down his mortgage, calling the win “a happy thing” for his family. The Landover Exxon, where the ticket was purchased, could be a lucky spot for future players.

Chris Quigley

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.

Quigley is committed to responsible journalism, emphasizing accuracy, source verification, and transparency in every story she reports. She strives to present information in a clear and accessible manner, helping readers better understand the issues, decisions, and events that impact their daily lives.

Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

Experience and interests: Criminal Justice, Business, Animal Care, Entertainment, Lottery News, Local News