District Heights Woman Wins $50,000 Scratch-Off After Sister's Timely Phone Call

A Prince George's County medical assistant turned a sister's phone call into a $50,000 payday, claiming the top prize on a $5 Winning Streak scratch-off she nearly didn't buy at the Wawa on Brooks Drive in District Heights.

The Maryland Lottery confirmed she claimed the prize on March 12, describing her as a "family-oriented player" who was driving home after a long workday when her sister, who shares her enthusiasm for Maryland Lottery games, called to remind her to play her numbers. That nudge was enough to send her one exit off her usual route to the Wawa at 2151 Brooks Drive.

Once inside, she bought several draw game tickets and a $10 scratch-off, then headed for the door. She turned back before reaching it and grabbed one more ticket: a $5 Winning Streak scratch-off. That last-second decision proved to be the right one.

The winner told Maryland Lottery officials she plans to put the $50,000 toward three things: new furniture, a family trip to Belize, and travel costs for her daughter's competitive cheer competitions. The cheer circuit alone carries substantial travel expenses for Prince George's County families whose children compete at regional and national levels, making the windfall practically timed.

Her name was not released by the Maryland Lottery, and no source provided identifying details beyond her occupation and county of residence.

The Wawa at 2151 Brooks Drive, a familiar stop for commuters along the Brooks Drive corridor near the District Heights border with Forestville, now joins a short list of Prince George's County retailers to have sold a five-figure Maryland Lottery prize in recent months.