Massive $1.128 Billion Mega Millions Jackpot Finally Claimed After Months of Waiting

The winner of the $1.128 billion Mega Millions jackpot from the March 2024 drawing has officially come forward to claim their prize, ending months of speculation and uncertainty. The winner, a New Jersey resident whose identity has not yet been disclosed, purchased the ticket at a store in West Orange. The jackpot was one of the largest in lottery history, and while the winner had the option to receive their winnings in a cash lump sum, they chose the annuity option, which pays the full prize amount over 30 years. ‘I couldn’t believe it when I found out I had won. I took my time to think it all through,’ the winner stated in a press release. The ticket bought at the West Orange store was one of two winning tickets sold that night, with another ticket sold in Illinois. After taxes and fees, the winner will still receive an impressive payout, estimated to be several hundred million dollars. Lottery officials are encouraging people to check their tickets and remain hopeful, as millions continue to play in hopes of hitting the next big jackpot.