A lottery ticket purchased in Florida has matched all the required numbers, securing a staggering $1.58 billion (£1.18 billion) Mega Millions jackpot, marking it as the third largest prize in the history of the United States.
The ticket was purchased from a supermarket situated in Neptune Beach, a locality in northern Florida. This remarkable victory comes after a series of 31 consecutive drawings since the last winning ticket for Mega Millions was claimed in New York on April 18.
The odds of achieving this extraordinary jackpot are estimated to be a mere one in 300 million. The winning combination of numbers included 13, 19, 20, 32, 33, and a significant “mega ball” number of 14.
While the fortunate individual who clinched this remarkable prize remains unidentified, Florida law dictates that winners receiving $250,000 or more are granted a 90-day period of anonymity following the prize claim date. However, the Florida Lottery is obligated to disclose the winner’s name, city of residence, and the amount won to any third party requesting such information. Personal contact details like street addresses and phone numbers are kept confidential.
For those who choose the annuity option, the full prize of $1.58 billion is disbursed over a span of 30 years. Alternatively, winners selecting a lump sum payment will receive an estimated $783 million.
This monumental jackpot ranks among the most substantial in the annals of US lotteries.
The Mega Millions tickets, obtainable at a cost of $2 each, are accessible in 45 US states, Washington DC, and the US Virgin Islands.
