California Woman Wins Historic $1.2 Billion Mega Millions Jackpot

COTTONWOOD, Calif. (AP) — California Lottery officials announced on Monday that Rosemary Casarotti is the lucky winner of a record-breaking $1.2 billion Mega Millions jackpot. Casarotti won by matching all six numbers drawn on December 27, 2024, at the Sunshine Food and Gas convenience store on Rhonda Road in Cottonwood, Shasta County.

The winning combination consisted of the numbers 3, 7, 37, 49, 55, and the Mega number 6, enhanced by a 3x “MegaPlier.” California Lottery Director Harjinder Shergill Chima expressed congratulations to Casarotti, stating, “We offer Rosemary our heartfelt congratulations for her historic win and our gratitude for her part in supporting the California Lottery’s mission to provide extra money for public education in our state.”

Casarotti, who opted not to be present for the announcement, chose to take her winnings as a lump sum, which will total more than $570 million after taxes. This jackpot marks the largest Mega Millions prize in California history and the highest jackpot awarded since the lottery began.

The jackpot had been escalating since September 10, 2024, when a separate winning ticket of $810 million was sold in Texas. In total, five tickets have matched all numbers since 2022, making this win even more significant amid a year of record low wins.

Lottery officials reported that the successful ticket sale generated an estimated $89.5 million for California’s public school system, reinforcing the lottery’s role in funding education across the state. Additionally, the store where the ticket was sold received a $1 million bonus, according to the California Lottery.

“It’s an amazing feeling to know that our store played a part in making Lottery history,” said Ishar Gill, owner of Circle K, where the winning ticket was purchased.

The Mega Millions game has seen substantial jackpots in various states, with notable wins including $1.6 billion in Florida and sums exceeding $6 billion in total from other states over the years. This victory has reignited interest and excitement surrounding the lottery, as it continues to be a popular source of entertainment for many. Times staff writer Clara Harter contributed to this report.