NEW YORK — A Howard Beach handyman, Mr. Antonio Moretti, has officially claimed the astounding $476 million Mega Millions jackpot, making him one of the largest individual lottery winners in New York State history. The lifechanging win, announced by the New York Lottery last Friday, has sparked an immediate buzz of excitement and local celebration throughout the Queens community. Moretti, a 52yearold father of two, opted for the lumpsum cash option, which amounts to approximately $252 million after federal and state taxes. He purchased the winning ticket from Lucky Stop Deli on Cross Bay Boulevard, a popular local spot known for its fresh coffee and lottery sales, just a day before the drawing. LifeAltering Fortune for Local Resident The winning numbers for the Mega Millions drawing on January 10, 2026, were 17, 24, 30, 43, 62, and the Mega Ball was 10. Moretti recounted his disbelief upon checking his ticket the morning after the drawing. “I couldn’t believe my eyes; I checked it three times, then had my wife check it, and then my daughter,” Moretti told reporters during a humble press conference at the New York Lottery’s Garden City office. “It’s a dream come true, something you only read about, not something that happens to a guy like me from Howard Beach.” Moretti, who has worked as a general contractor and handyman in the Howard Beach area for over 30 years, plans to use a significant portion of his winnings to ensure his family’s financial security. He also expressed intentions to establish a local charity fund to support community initiatives, particularly those focused on youth sports and elderly care. Community Reactions and Economic Ripple Effects The news of Moretti’s colossal win has sent ripples of excitement and wellwishes through Howard Beach. Neighbors and fellow business owners expressed joy for the longtime resident, describing him as a hardworking and kind individual who is welldeserving of his newfound fortune. “Antonio is a good man, always ready to lend a hand,” said Sal Vitale, owner of Sal's Pizzeria on Cross Bay Boulevard, a local landmark near where Moretti bought his ticket. “We’re all thrilled for him. It’s great to see good things happen to good people from our community.” Economists suggest that large lottery wins can have a localized, albeit temporary, stimulative effect on small economies. Moretti's intention to support local charities and potentially invest in local businesses could inject significant capital into the Howard Beach economy, benefiting various sectors. Navigating Sudden Wealth and Future Plans While the immediate reaction is jubilation, financial advisors often caution lottery winners about the complexities of managing sudden wealth. Moretti has reportedly engaged a team of financial planners, lawyers, and tax experts to help him navigate his new financial landscape, ensuring responsible stewardship of his vast fortune. He confirmed plans to purchase a new home for his family within Howard Beach, avoiding any move away from the neighborhood he loves. This commitment to staying local has resonated positively with community members, who appreciate his loyalty to the area around the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge. This momentous win highlights the incredible odds of the Mega Millions game, which are approximately 1 in 302.6 million for the jackpot. Moretti's story serves as a vivid reminder that even in the most unlikely scenarios, dreams can manifest from a single purchased ticket, as captured in . Frequently Asked Questions About the Mega Millions Win Who is the Howard Beach Mega Millions winner? The winner is Antonio Moretti, a 52yearold handyman and general contractor who has lived and worked in Howard Beach for over 30 years. He is a father of two. Where was the winning ticket purchased? Mr. Moretti purchased his winning Mega Millions ticket at Lucky Stop Deli, located on Cross Bay Boulevard in Howard Beach. This deli is a popular local spot for lottery tickets. How much did the winner receive after taxes? Antonio Moretti chose the lumpsum cash option. After federal and New York State taxes, his payout is approximately $252 million from the $476 million jackpot. What are the winner's plans for the money? Moretti plans to ensure his family's financial security, purchase a new home within Howard Beach, and establish a local charity fund. This fund will reportedly focus on supporting youth sports and elderly care initiatives in the community. How will this impact the Howard Beach community? The win is expected to bring a positive local buzz and potential economic benefits. Moretti's plans to stay local and invest in community charities could inject significant capital and support into the neighborhood, fostering goodwill and potentially boosting local businesses.
