BREAKING: An anonymous winner has just claimed the $983 million Mega Millions jackpot, marking a historic moment for Georgia as the largest lottery prize ever won in the state. This monumental win, announced on January 2, 2024, follows the drawing on November 14, 2023, and positions it as the eighth-largest jackpot in Mega Millions history.
Officials report that the winner opted for the cash payout, receiving a staggering $453.6 million before taxes. The Georgia Lottery Corporation emphasizes the positive impact this win will have on the community and education, as the winner has a personal connection to the Georgia Lottery-funded HOPE Scholarship.
“We are thrilled to celebrate Georgia’s record-breaking jackpot winner and their life-changing start to the new year,” said Gretchen Corbin, President and CEO of the Georgia Lottery Corporation. “This historic jackpot was also significant for Georgia’s students, families, and communities.”
The winning ticket was purchased at a Publix supermarket in Newnan, Georgia, a location now buzzing with excitement following the announcement. The ticket holder, a regular lottery player, was drawn to the jackpot’s growth after noticing it on a billboard. Upon checking the Georgia Lottery website, they confirmed their life-altering win.
The winner has expressed a desire to use their newfound wealth for “generational” benefits and to give back to “good causes,” reflecting a commitment to community support. This jackpot not only changes their life but also enhances funding for educational programs supported by the Georgia Lottery.
The $983 million Mega Millions jackpot had been building since June, following a record run of 40 drawings without a winner. This substantial prize is the largest awarded in November, surpassing all previous records for that month.
In comparison, the previous record for the largest prize was a whopping $1.602 billion won in Florida in August 2023. The recent changes to the Mega Millions format, including an increase in ticket prices from $2 to $5, have been credited with accelerating jackpot growth, raising the starting jackpot to $50 million.
Lottery retailers that sell winning tickets also benefit, with a $50,000 incentive bonus for the store that sold this historic ticket. This win has sparked renewed interest in lottery participation across the state, as residents hope to capitalize on the excitement and potential for life-changing wins.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the community rallies around its newest millionaire. This win serves as a reminder of the potential for life-altering fortune and the importance of responsible gaming.