Fayetteville man plans to share largest Carolina Keno prize - $212,500 - with family

A Fayetteville man was overcome with emotion after recently winning a $212,500 Carolina Keno prize.

“I had to sit down for a few minutes just to breathe,” said Richard Tyler Jr.

It was the largest prize won in the history of the Keno game.

Tyler’s big win occurred Tuesday at Gray’s Creek BP on N.C. 87 South in Fayetteville, where he frequently plays the game.

“The girls who work in the store know me,” he laughed. “They call me Keno.”

Carolina Keno lets you choose how many numbers, or spots, you play and your choice determines your odds and the prize you play for.

Tyler bought a $20 ticket and played for 10 shares. After matching nine of 10 numbers and winning $4,250, his prize grew to $212,500 when the 5X multiplier was drawn.

“When I saw how many I matched, I was like, ‘oh my gosh,’” Tyler said. “I got kind of nervous.”

Tyler claimed his prize Friday at lottery headquarters. After taxes, Tyler took home $151,943.

Tyler has eight siblings and he said he plans to share his winnings with his family.

“We are very tight knit and very close,” he said.