Frenzy hits Mirage in Las Vegas as resort pays out $1.6 million before closure

LAS VEGAS (KSNV) — The casino floor at The Mirage has been packed as the resort begins to pay out $1.6 million in progressive jackpots ahead of its closure next week.

State gaming laws require the casino to disperse progressive jackpots before suspending operations, which means The Mirage must hand out its prizes over the next few days.

Rewards members who play any slot machine will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win a share of $1.2 million in cash. Drawings for the cash prizes began on Tuesday and will continue on Friday, Saturday and Tuesday.

The result has been a frenzy of slot machine action, with people lining up to play and get their chance to win.

Photos and videos posted to social media have shown every operable machine in use. There have also been photos of security officers standing watch over players amid reports of fights breaking out.

Another $400,000 will be paid out Friday and Saturday to randomly selected rewards members who play qualifying table games.

The Mirage is scheduled to close its doors on Wednesday, July 17.