California Man Wins $1.2M Lottery After Co-Worker's Text Reminder

Michael Chavez discovered his Mega Millions win after a colleague joked about his absence from work on Election Day.

Michael Chavez purchased the winning lottery ticket at Lake Liquor in Lakewood, California, before the November 5, 2024, Mega Millions drawing.
Chavez initially forgot to check his ticket, focusing instead on the presidential election results that night.
A co-worker texted Chavez the next morning, jokingly suggesting he skipped work because he had won the lottery, and sent a screenshot of the winning numbers.
Upon checking his ticket, Chavez confirmed he matched five out of six numbers, winning $1,214,818.
The liquor store that sold the winning ticket received a $6,000 bonus, and Chavez expressed gratitude, calling the experience unforgettable.