NEW YORK — A Howard Beach handyman has achieved a lifealtering victory, claiming a staggering $476 million Mega Millions jackpot, making him one of New York's largest lottery winners in recent history. The New York Lottery Commission confirmed the enormous payout on February 18, 2026, sending ripples of excitement through the Queens community and beyond. The winning ticket, which matched all six numbers from the drawing on February 14, 2026, was purchased at a corner deli on Cross Bay Boulevard. The identity of the winner, who chose to remain anonymous for a period, was later revealed as Michael “Mike” Santoro, a 54yearold father of two and a lifelong resident of Howard Beach. His unexpected fortune has become the talk of the town. The Unbelievable Winning Moment and Impact Santoro, who has worked as a handyman for over 30 years, reportedly discovered his win late at night while checking numbers on his phone. “I thought it was a joke, honestly,” Santoro told PIX11 News in an exclusive interview last week. “I checked it three times, woke up my wife, and we just sat there staring at the numbers. It didn’t feel real. It still doesn't.” The $476 million prize represents the fourthlargest Mega Millions jackpot ever won in New York State. After choosing the lumpsum cash option, Santoro will receive approximately $290 million before taxes, a substantial amount that will profoundly change his family’s future. The New York Lottery Commission processed the claim efficiently. Community Reacts to Local Fortune The news of a local winning such an immense sum has sparked widespread celebration and speculation throughout Howard Beach. Neighbors and friends of Santoro have expressed their joy and surprise, describing him as a hardworking and humble individual deserving of the good fortune. Conversations at local spots, from New Park Pizza to local delis, invariably touch on the big win. “Mike’s a great guy, always willing to lend a hand,” said Tony Moretti, owner of Tony’s Hardware on 157th Avenue, where Santoro is a regular customer. “If anyone deserves this kind of luck, it’s him. It’s a good story for Howard Beach, gives everyone a bit of hope, you know?” Financial Planning and Future Aspirations Winning such a massive amount of money comes with significant financial planning responsibilities. Sources close to Santoro indicated he is consulting with financial advisors and legal experts to manage his new wealth responsibly. Initial plans are said to include ensuring his children's financial security and making some home improvements. While details are still emerging, Santoro has also expressed interest in giving back to the Howard Beach community, a place he has called home his entire life. Philanthropic endeavors are expected to be part of his longterm plans, though no specific announcements have been made at this time. Lottery Fever Sweeps Queens The Mega Millions win has reignited lottery fever across Queens, with sales of tickets reportedly increasing in the days following Santoro's announcement. Many hope that another local resident might strike it rich, contributing to the aspirational mood. The New York Lottery generates billions for education statewide, and significant wins often boost participation. The convenience store where the winning ticket was sold, Joe's Deli and Grocery, also received a bonus check of $10,000 for selling the jackpotwinning ticket, as is customary for lottery retailers. This local business, a fixture in the community, has seen a surge in customers hoping to buy their next lucky ticket from the same location. For more information on and how the proceeds benefit the state, visit their official website. Frequently Asked Questions About the Mega Millions Win What are the odds of winning the Mega Millions jackpot? The odds of winning the Mega Millions jackpot are approximately 1 in 302.6 million. These odds highlight the incredibly rare nature of Michael Santoro's win, making his story even more remarkable for the Howard Beach community and beyond. How much does the winner actually receive after taxes? While the advertised jackpot was $476 million, Michael Santoro chose the cash option, which was roughly $290 million before federal and state taxes. After taxes, the takehome amount is significantly less, but still an enormous sum, typically around 6070% of the cash value, depending on individual tax brackets and deductions. Exact figures are often kept private by winners. Where was the winning ticket purchased in Howard Beach? The winning ticket was purchased at Joe's Deli and Grocery, a wellknown local business located on Cross Bay Boulevard. This location has become a minor landmark since the announcement, with many residents and visitors stopping by to try their luck and congratulate the store owner on their bonus.
