Fayetteville resident Herminio Rivera got a major shock after a quick stop at Legion Mart gas station turned into a $150,000 jackpot moment.
Rivera, who drove about 65 miles south from Raleigh, spent just $5 on a Loteria Fiesta scratch-off ticket. “I thought I won $2,000,” he admitted to the North Carolina Education Lottery. “I was shocked.” It wasn’t until he scanned the ticket and brought it to lottery headquarters that he realized the true prize—and it blew his mind.
Beating long odds of more than 1 in 1.2 million, Rivera walked away with $150,000, which boiled down to $107,626 after taxes. His plan? Share some of the winnings with his family and soak in the excitement of a life-changing day.
Lottery surprises like this aren’t rare. Earlier this year, another North Carolina man thought his winning ticket was worth only $10—until he found out the real amount left him “flabbergasted,” according to McClatchy News.
While many people can enjoy games of chance responsibly, it’s important to remember that gambling can become an addiction for some, causing serious financial and personal problems. If you or a loved one struggles with gambling, help is available through the National Gambling Hotline at 1-800-522-4700 or via the National Council on Problem Gambling website.
For Herminio Rivera, this small gamble turned into a moment of pure joy—and a story to tell for years to come.
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