Story perspectives

Lottery Winner Overcomes Mistaken Identity to Claim $800 Prize

1/19/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Carl McCain from Timberlake, North Carolina, won $800 in the November 4 Mega Millions drawing but initially could not collect his winnings due to a reported debt.
The North Carolina Education Lottery stated his winnings would offset debts from Lenoir and Wayne Counties, which McCain confirmed he did not owe.
McCain identified a case of mistaken identity related to his Social Security number.
After intervention from ABC11 Troubleshooter Diane Wilson, McCain received his check, minus taxes, and intends to keep playing the lottery.

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Story summary

Carl McCain from Timberlake, North Carolina, won $800 in the November 4 Mega Millions drawing but initially could not collect his winnings due to a reported debt.
The North Carolina Education Lottery stated his winnings would offset debts from Lenoir and Wayne Counties, which McCain confirmed he did not owe.
McCain identified a case of mistaken identity related to his Social Security number.
After intervention from ABC11 Troubleshooter Diane Wilson, McCain received his check, minus taxes, and intends to keep playing the lottery.