SOUTHWEST MIAMI-DADE, FLA. (WSVN) — As millions across the country wait to find out if they won life-changing money, several people in South Florida are rushing to buy last-minute tickets to toss their name into the hat.
“I’m here to play,” said Sophia Massie, who bought a Mega Millions ticket. She’s one of several in South Florida who lined up at gas stations, convenience stores, and grocery stores looking to win after the Mega Millions jackpot ballooned to more than $980 million. This surge followed a drawing Tuesday night in which no one matched all six numbers.
“Yeah, that’s a lot of money. I don’t know if my heart can take it, but we’ll see if it happens,” said Luis Naranjo, who also bought tickets.
As Friday night’s drawing approached, excitement soared in South Florida. “I bought four tickets, you know, crossing my fingers,” Naranjo shared.
Last-minute ticket buyers swarmed the 7-Eleven located off Miller Drive and Ludlam Road in Southwest Miami-Dade to get their hands on tickets. Some players hoped their lucky numbers would ring true, while others let the machine decide their fate.
“I’m going to play right now,” said one man as he went inside to purchase his ticket.
Even 7News’ Jessica Vallejo joined in the excitement, picking up her own ticket.
Others buying tickets said they were doing it for family members. “My grandparents bugged me that they’re like, ‘Here’s the cash, here’s the ticket, come and play the Mega Millions and the Florida Lottery Powerball,’” said a woman.
With time ticking away until the drawing, everyone is crossing their fingers, hoping Friday night will change their lives forever.
“The first thing I’d do is pay off my debts, my parents’ debts,” shared one woman.
“Help my community, and I think people with money should invest more in the community,” said Naranjo.