‘Kept wondering if it could be real’: Lexington man wins $4 million after buying scratch-off at convenience store

MEBANE, N.C. (WGHP) — Thomas Harris, of Lexington, won the $4 million top prize in the Supreme 7s scratch-off game over the weekend, according to an NC Education Lottery news release.

“I always said, ‘One day I’m going to get that $4 million,’” he said.

He said he still had trouble comprehending it when it actually happened.

“I kept wondering if it could be real,” Harris said. “I had to go back and ask the owner to scan it for me.”

Harris bought his winning $30 Supreme 7s scratch-off on Saturday from Tommy’s Mini Mart on West Center Street in Mebane.

When he arrived at lottery headquarters Monday to collect his prize, he had a decision to make.

Harris could choose to receive the prize as an annuity of $200,000 over 20 years or a lump sum of $2.4 million.

He chose the lump sum of $2.4 million. After required state and federal tax withholdings, he took home $1,716,009.

Harris said he plans to use his winnings to pay bills, invest and fix up his cars.

Where can I get the latest lottery numbers?

Watch lottery drawings on FOX8! Mega Millions airs at 11 p.m. on Tuesday and Friday. Powerball airs at 10:59 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday. The NC Lottery airs at 11:22 p.m. every night.

You can also find the lottery results online on the FOX8 website .

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