A California woman has hit the jackpot in a big way, winning the $1.2 billion Mega Millions prize. Rosemary Casarotti, who was the sole winner of the December 27, 2024 drawing, has chosen to remain out of the public eye, despite her historic win.
Casarotti was the only player in the country to correctly pick all six numbers, securing the massive payout. She declined to attend a press conference to announce the win, opting instead to keep her life private. However, state lottery spokesperson Carolyn Becker shared that Casarotti expressed immense excitement upon learning of her win during a brief conversation.
The lucky ticket was purchased at Sunshine Food and Gas Circle K in Cottonwood, California. Casarotti selected the lump sum payment of $571 million, rather than opting for the full $1.2 billion prize paid out over several decades.
California Lottery Director Harjinder Shergill Chima extended heartfelt congratulations to Casarotti, highlighting the importance of her win in supporting California’s public education system. Approximately $89.5 million from the Mega Millions jackpot is designated for public schools across the state.
Though additional details about Casarotti’s identity were not disclosed, public records suggest she is in her 60s and resides in California. Efforts to reach her for further comment were unsuccessful.
The retail store where the winning ticket was sold also reaped a $1 million bonus. Ishar Gill, the owner of Sunshine Food and Gas Circle K, expressed pride in the store’s role in making lottery history. “It’s a great feeling to know that our store was part of something so monumental,” Gill said. “Our customers are everything, and we’re grateful to be part of such a fantastic community.”
Mega Millions drawings occur every Tuesday and Friday, with the current jackpot standing at $324 million .
