California Woman Claims Record $1.2 Billion Mega Millions Jackpot
A California woman has claimed last year's staggering $1.2 billion Mega Millions jackpot—one of the largest in the game's history. Rosemary Casarotti secured the life-changing prize in the December 27, 2024, draw by matching all six numbers. She has since chosen to stay out of the spotlight and collect her winnings as a single lump sum of $571 million.
Casarotti purchased the winning ticket at Sunshine Food and Gas Circle K in Cottonwood, Shasta County. The convenience store later received a $1 million bonus for selling the jackpot-winning slip. Her victory also means a significant boost for California's education system, with an estimated $89.5 million from her win directed toward state schools.
Following her win, the Mega Millions jackpot rolled over without a winner. After the March 3, 2026, drawing, the prize climbed to an estimated $496 million for the March 6 draw. The current jackpot now stands at around $324 million, with odds of winning remaining at 1 in 302.6 million. Casarotti's decision to take a lump sum rather than annual payments reflects a common choice among major lottery winners. Her win ranks among the highest Mega Millions payouts ever recorded, cementing its place in the game's history.
The $1.2 billion jackpot has now been claimed, but the Mega Millions lottery continues to grow. Casarotti's win will fund education initiatives across California, while the next draw offers another chance at a multimillion-dollar prize. The store that sold her ticket has already benefited from a substantial bonus.
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