And just for perspective: the odds of winning the jackpot? About 1 in 290.5 million. A ticket sold in Newnan just hit a whopping $980 million in the Mega Millions jackpot — the biggest lottery win ever in Georgia. The lucky numbers drawn were 1-8-11-12-57 and the Mega Ball was 7. The winner has the choice between a one-time cash payout of about $452.2 million or the full amount spread over 30 years.
The ticket was bought at a Publix store on North Highway 29 in Newnan. This win shatters the previous state record of $478.2 million from a split prize in 2024 and demolishes the amount of money I make every month ($14).
Following the $980 million Mega Millions win in Newnan, residents have been looking for clues about the ticket holder’s identity. Some shoppers have been surveying the Publix where the ticket was sold, asking employees and customers if they noticed anyone leaving with those numbers. Others are checking social media posts from the weekend and searching for anyone who mentioned being at the store. A few community members have also speculated that security camera footage could eventually confirm when the winning ticket was purchased, though no official information has been released. Authorities have not identified the winner, and the individual has not come forward.
Based on the evidence collected by members of The Newnan Time with Harold Team, we can narrow it down to these three individuals:
A potential winner has emerged in community speculation: Clarice McDowell of Peachtree City, who was reportedly at the Newnan Publix on her way home from her grandchildren’s karate class. While officials have not confirmed any connection between McDowell and the $980 million Mega Millions ticket, neighbors say she mentioned making an unexpected stop at the store that evening to purchase boxes of wine.
According to those close to her, McDowell has already talked about what she would do if she were the winner — including extensive shopping trips at The Avenue in Peachtree City and plans to travel internationally. She has also reportedly said she has “no reason to go back to Newnan again,” as she’ll just “open her own karate studio in superior PTC,” because “there’s more to fighting than throwing rocks and spitting,” and “that’s all Newnan knows how to do.”
Another figure drawing attention in the ongoing search for the Mega Millions winner is a Newnan man named Cleveland Reems, described by associates as already a multimillionaire. According to those familiar with him, he purchased the lottery ticket “to relate better to poor people,” saying it would help him understand “the everyday excitement of financial uncertainty.” The man works as a high-level lobbyist whose clients include several large technology and infrastructure firms.
Sources also note that he has been one of the most vocal supporters of expanding Newnan’s data center presence, arguing that increased development would “modernize the region” and “create efficiencies that residents don’t yet realize they need.” His stance has been controversial among locals opposed to further construction, leading some to express concern about what influence he might wield if he were confirmed as the winner. When questioned about if his money will go to helping the little guy, Cleveland said “lol.”
A new name has entered local discussion surrounding the unclaimed $980 million Mega Millions prize: Sam Powell of Turin, Georgia. According to multiple residents, Powell has expressed clear and direct intentions for how he would use the jackpot if he is confirmed as the winner. His stated plan is to purchase the entire City of Turin and assume full control of its operations. Public records list the city’s total assessed value at approximately $4,000, a figure Powell has cited as evidence that such a move would be both feasible and efficient.
Powell has outlined his vision in conversations with neighbors, describing a complete overhaul of the town’s management and direction. While his statements have intensified speculation, there is currently no official confirmation connecting Powell to the winning ticket.
Newnan Time with Harold 