California man wins $ 1.2 million. Lottery after reminder text from employee

On January 31, 2025By Littum

Michael Chavez was more concerned about the results of the presidential election instead of controlling his mega million ticket, Lottery officials said.

A fired text from a colleague led a man to be told he had won $ 1.2 million after playing the California lottery.

On November 5, The Night of Election Day, Michael Chavez Woke up in the middle of the night for the results Instead of checking the drawing for his megamillion ticket. According to Lottery officials, he bought it from a Los Angeles County liquor store.

It was only before his colleague texted him when he did not show up to work that he remembered the ticket.

“Chavez said he had forgotten to tell his staff that he would not be in the office, and his employee joked that he knew the reason for his absence and sent him a screenshot of the MEGA MILLA MORNING results from California Lottery site, “Lottery -officials said in a news message.

‘I’m so excited’

The text conversation between Chavez and his employee shows the moment Chavez realized he might be a winner.

“Is that why you are not here,” the employee wrote with a screenshot of the results.

“Holy (express) I haven’t checked mine,” replied Chavez. “This is where I bought my ticket.”

When Chavez finally checked, he realized he had five of the six numbers and won $ 1,214,818, lottery officials said. According to the news message, the spirits store received over $ 6,000 for selling the ticket.

“I couldn’t believe my eyes. I’m so excited and extremely grateful,” Chavez told officials. “I will never forget about election night or especially that text.”

Taylor Ardrey is a news reporter for USA Today. You can reach her at [email protected].