Powerball Jackpot Hits Record-Breaking $550 Million
By: Ashley Hinson
Updated: November 28, 2012
Lubbock resident, Marry Lee Porter, has high hopes for winning the mega millions.
"Maybe I'll get lucky, we'll see," Porter said.
Getting lucky might be an understatement. Experts say you have a one in 175 million chance to take home the money.
The jackpot hit its largest number ever on Wednesday after a surge in ticket sales. It soared to $550 million.
"I would love to especially win and if I did I think I would help my family out and myself out," said Porter. "It is the Christmas holidays and all so I'd like to give to other people."
Joe Amburn was filling up his gas tank at 7-11. When he saw how much the jackpot was worth he decided to buy 10 tickets.
"I heard that the jackpot was huge and it would be drawing on Wednesday," Amburn said. "I thought, eh, why not give it a shot?"
The Texas Lottery Office said that a winner taking the cash option would get $360.2 million before taxes.
That prize grows even larger with each $2 ticket purchase.
Amburn knows exactly what he would do with the winnings.
"I would buy an airplane, motor home, and travel," Amburn said. "And then share it probably."
