Newton, NC, September 18, 2025
News Summary
William Wheeler from Newton won an impressive $100,000 in the North Carolina Education Lottery after purchasing a $50 scratch-off ticket. This remarkable second-tier prize comes after he beat odds of 1 in 1,521,132, and after taxes, he pocketed $71,764. Demonstrating generosity, Wheeler plans to share his winnings with his wife and three daughters, showcasing a commitment to family unity. This win also highlights the educational contributions of lottery revenues in North Carolina.
Newton, NC – A man from Newton has won a surprising $100,000 in the North Carolina Education Lottery, an impressive feat considering he beat odds of 1 in 1,521,132. William Wheeler purchased a $50 ticket for the $8 Million Money Maker scratch-off game at Fast Phil’s in Statesville, NC.
The substantial prize represents a second-tier win in the game, where the top prize of $8 million is available but comes with odds of 1 in 3,042,264. After federal and state taxes were deducted, Wheeler took home a check for $71,764.
In a striking gesture of generosity, Wheeler decided to give the winnings to his wife. This decision reflects Wheeler’s trust in her capability to manage the newfound wealth. Furthermore, he indicated that their three daughters may also share in the financial windfall, with each potentially receiving around $23,921.33 if the amount is evenly divided.
Wheeler is no stranger to lottery wins; however, this latest haul is the largest he has ever received. His familiarity with lottery winnings includes an understanding of the shared winnings between spouses, which plays a crucial role in decisions regarding their finances.
The couple, residing 167 miles west of Raleigh, expressed feelings of luck following this stroke of fortune. Wheeler’s statement, reflecting on his fortunate situation, emphasizes the joy associated with such unexpected financial gains.
The North Carolina Education Lottery performs significant community contributions, with a portion of lottery revenues allocated for educational programs across the state. Each ticket purchase, including the one acquired by Wheeler, aids in funding vital initiatives aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for residents.
It’s important to note that while winning the lottery can come with significant advantages, officials warn that gambling can be addictive. They encourage responsible gaming practices and provide resources for individuals who may need assistance with gambling addiction. This reminder serves to highlight the potential risks associated with lottery participation and gambling in general.
Lottery winners like Wheeler showcase a blend of fortune and social responsibility, as they navigate their newfound wealth while also considering the impact on family and community. His story resonates with the unpredictable nature of life and the unexpected joys that can come from simple purchases, such as a scratch-off lottery ticket.
As Wheeler and his family plan their next steps following this financial windfall, their story continues to capture the imagination of many, proving that lottery wins can lead not just to personal fortune but can also foster family unity and shared dreams.
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Additional Resources
- NBC Boston: Mass Woman Wins $10 Million on Scratch Ticket
- Google Search: Massachusetts lottery winners
- MassLive: Mass State Lottery Winner Plans to Buy House
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Lottery
- WCVB: Woman Wins $10 Million on Scratch-Off Ticket
- Google News: Lottery Winners
- Berkshire Eagle: Pittsfield $10 Million Scratch Ticket
- Google Scholar: Lottery Winners
Author: STAFF HERE IRMO
The IRMO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIrmo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Irmo, Lexington and Richland Counties, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Irmo Okra Strut Festival, Harbison Community Events, and local sports tournaments at the Palmetto Health Credit Union Foundation Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission and the Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center, plus leading businesses in retail and healthcare that power the local economy such as Village at Sandhill and Lexington Medical Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
