We have a Mega Millions jackpot winner – and it wasn’t from New York, California, or Florida. It was Cortland, Illinois – population 4,300 – that just made lottery history.
One lucky winner walked into a Casey’s General Store and walked out with a ticket worth $344 million from the March 25 drawing. That ticket matched all six numbers: 1, 5, 17, 39, 62, and Mega Ball 8. The cash option? A jaw-dropping $159.1 million.
Who is the Mega Millions Jackpot Winner?
So far, no one has publicly come forward to claim the prize. But speculation is already buzzing in Cortland. Locals are wondering if it’s a regular customer, a passerby, or a first-time player who hit the life-altering jackpot. One thing is certain: someone out there is suddenly worth more than most pro athletes.
Odds of Winning? Practically Astronomical
The odds of winning the Mega Millions jackpot are 1 in 302,575,350, which makes this win all the more extraordinary. The drawing resets the Mega Millions jackpot to $20 million for this Friday, March 28, with a cash option of $9.2 million.
Ohio Had Its Own Share of Luck
While the grand prize winner came from Illinois, thousands in Ohio walked away with smaller winnings:
- 2 winners of $1,000
- 10 winners of $500
- 519 winners of $20
- Over 8,600 winners even scored $2
That’s a whole lot of people checking their tickets – and double-checking their pockets.
What Happens Next?
The Mega Millions jackpot winner has up to a year to come forward, but lottery officials advise signing the back of the ticket and contacting legal and financial advisors ASAP.
Until then, all eyes are on Casey’s in Cortland, now forever known as the place where dreams really do come true.
