A historic Mega Millions jackpot worth an estimated $1.22 billion has found a winner in California. After three months without any jackpot winners, the Friday night drawing finally produced a lucky ticket, sold at a Circle K convenience store in Cottonwood, a small rural town located about 150 miles north of Sacramento.
The winning numbers for the December 27 drawing were 3, 7, 37, 49, 55, with the gold Mega Ball 6. The California Lottery confirmed that the ticket was purchased at “Circle K Sunshine Food and Gas” on Rhonda Road. Ishar Gill, the son of the store owner, described the win as “a blessing” for the close-knit town of approximately 6,000 residents. However, the identity of the winner—or winners—remains unknown. “We don’t have the slightest clue who may have won it or who may have sold it. But congratulations to the winner,” said Gill in an interview with the Associated Press.
A Life-Changing Jackpot
The total jackpot amount of $1.22 billion is available to the winner if they opt for an annuity, to be paid out over 29 years. However, most winners typically choose the lump sum cash payout, which for this jackpot is estimated to be $549.7 million.
This massive win comes as ticket sales surged in recent months, despite the daunting odds of winning, which stand at 1 in 302.6 million. The previous Mega Millions jackpot winner was back on September 10, 2024.
Record-Breaking Lotteries
This isn’t the first time Mega Millions has made headlines with jaw-dropping prizes. The largest-ever Mega Millions jackpot, worth $1.6 billion, was won in Florida in August 2023. While this latest win ranks among the top, two Powerball jackpots have exceeded it, further cementing the popularity of these nationwide lotteries.
Mega Millions tickets are sold in 45 states, as well as Washington, D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Powerball, a comparable lottery, is also available in Puerto Rico.
Changes Coming to Mega Millions
In April 2025, Mega Millions ticket prices are set to increase from $2 to $5. Officials have stated that the price hike will bring changes aimed at improving jackpot odds, leading to more frequent massive prizes and even larger payouts.
A Community Impact
The small town of Cottonwood will undoubtedly feel the ripple effects of this monumental win. For the Circle K store where the ticket was sold, it’s not just about bragging rights—the store will likely receive a financial bonus for selling the winning ticket. This win has already sparked excitement across the town, and many are eagerly awaiting the revelation of the winner’s identity.
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