Illinois Resident Hits Mega Millions Jackpot: $344 Million Winner Revealed!

This week, a Mega Millions lottery ticket purchased in DeKalb County, located on the western edge of the Chicago metro area, has transformed someone's life, making them a staggering $344 million richer.

The winning numbers drawn on Tuesday evening were 01, 05, 17, 39, and 62, with the Mega Ball being 8 and a Megaplier of 2. The ticket that matched these numbers was bought at a Casey's General Store in Cortland, according to lottery officials. This win marks only the second major jackpot for Mega Millions this year, following a $112 million jackpot won in Arizona back on January 17.

For context, the end of 2024 saw a jaw-dropping $1.2 billion prize claimed by a lucky winner in California, just in time for the holiday season. Since Illinois joined the Mega Millions lottery in 2002, the state has celebrated 16 jackpot winners, including the very first two winners back in May 2002.

Leading up to this week's impressive $344 million prize, over 8.8 million tickets won various amounts, with 16 of those tickets earning prizes exceeding $1 million, including some purchased in Illinois and Indiana.

If the fortunate winner from Cortland chooses the cash option, they will take home nearly $160 million in cash. This life-changing win is a reminder of the excitement and possibilities that come with playing the lottery.

Stay tuned for more updates as we learn more about the winner and their plans for this newfound fortune!