May 28th 2024.
In Raleigh, North Carolina, there was an incredible story of luck and family ties as 18-year-old Jalen McLean won the lottery with a little help from his sister. It was a moment that changed their lives forever.
In an interview with ABC 11, McLean shared how his sister, Dasha Silas, played a crucial role in their big win. He had given her the opportunity to choose the lottery ticket that would hopefully bring them some fortune, and she picked the $10 Jumbo Bucks at a gas station in Fayetteville on May 21. Little did they know, it would be the ticket to a million dollars.
McLean recalled the moment they realized they had won the jackpot, saying, "I was so overwhelmed with joy and excitement, I couldn't stop smiling." His sister added, "His smile was so big, it reminded me of the movie character Venom."
The shock of their win has yet to wear off for McLean, who is well aware of the incredible opportunity this money can provide at such a young age. "I feel like the luckiest guy in the universe," he said, "how many 18-year-olds win something like this?"
When it came time to receive their earnings, the teenager had two options: a $600,000 lump sum or $50,000 per year for the next 20 years. McLean chose the latter, but after taxes, his first check was about $36,000. Still, it was a significant amount of money for someone his age.
With his newfound wealth, McLean has big plans for his future. He hopes to buy a luxury car, specifically an Audi, with his winnings. While it's unclear if he plans to share his fortune with his sister, Silas seems to be fully supportive of her brother's success.
McLean is now among the youngest lottery winners in the country, as the legal age to play remains at 18. The youngest winner in U.S. history was also from North Carolina, according to Oldest.org. In 2008, 19-year-old Jay Vargas won over $35 million after playing the Powerball in South Carolina.
For now, McLean is just excited to have the opportunity to drive around in a new luxury car, thanks to his sister's lucky ticket choice. It's a story that proves that sometimes, good things really do come to those who least expect it.
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