California woman claims $1.2 billion Mega Millions prize

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The California Lottery has confirmed that Rosemary Casarotti is the sole winner of the $1.2 billion Mega Millions jackpot, the largest in the state’s history.

WASHINGTON — The California Lottery has identified the single winner of the largest Mega Millions jackpot in state history, valued at over $1.2 billion.

Rosemary Casarotti, who was the only person in the country to match all six numbers, purchased the winning ticket on December 27, 2024, at the Sunshine Food and Gas Circle K in Cottonwood, California.

“We offer Rosemary our heartfelt congratulations for her historic win and our gratitude for her part in supporting the California Lottery’s mission to provide extra money for public education in our state,” California Lottery Director Harjinder Shergill Chima said in a statement. “Because of this historic jackpot win, the California Lottery was able to raise an estimated $89.5 million for public schools.”

Casarotti opted for privacy and did not attend the press conference to announce her name. She chose the lump sum option, which amounts to over $571 million after federal taxes.

Most lottery jackpot winners stay anonymous, if they can. But often that’s not up to them to decide. While winners in some states can choose to stay anonymous, California law requires the jackpot winner’s name to be released when they come forward to claim their prize, but they can choose to keep other details private.

“I had the pleasure of speaking with Rosemary by phone following her win, and I can tell you with certainty how grateful she is and how happy she is to have won this money and to have supported public schools,” California Lottery spokesperson Carolyn Becker said in a press release.

The Sunshine Food and Gas Circle K will also receive a $1 million bonus for selling the winning ticket.