Ronald Mueller, a Hagerstown resident, transitioned from disappointment to elation after winning $50,000 on a $500,000 Crossword scratch-off ticket. Although Mueller is a dedicated lottery player with a preference for a variety of games, including the $1 Million Royale and Powerball, his $20 investment in the crossword-themed scratch-off turned out to be his most rewarding gamble yet.
Mueller had initially spent $80 on Powerball tickets at The Corner Pub, located at 158 South Mulberry Street in Hagerstown, aiming for the jackpot. However, when the Powerball drawing yielded no wins for him, he decided to spend an extra $20 he had on a $500,000 Crossword scratch-off ticket. As he scratched off the ticket, his initial disappointment was replaced by disbelief, then excitement and joy. “I stood there for a minute with my jaw on the floor because I don’t have that type of luck,” said Mueller.
The 39-year-old described the experience as an “emotional roller coaster,” going from the lows of not winning anything in the Powerball drawing to the highs of the scratch-off win. When asked about his future plans for the prize money, Mueller expressed uncertainty, stating that he hasn’t yet decided what to do with his newfound fortune.
Launched in September 2019, the $500,000 Crossword game still has two top prizes left. Mueller’s win was the last $50,000 prize in the game. The scratch-off also offers three remaining $10,000 prizes and other potential winnings ranging from $20 to $1,000.