Unclaimed $1.13 Billion Mega Millions Jackpot: New Jersey Winner Still Missing

Nearly five months have passed since a $1.13 billion Mega Millions jackpot was won in New Jersey, yet the fortunate ticket holder has yet to come forward. The winning ticket, purchased at ShopRite Liquor #781 in Neptune Township, remains unclaimed, leaving officials and residents alike in suspense. The March jackpot, which marked the eighth largest in U.S. lottery history, had odds of one in 302.6 million. The winner faces a choice between receiving the full amount in annual payments over 30 years or opting for a lump-sum cash payout of $537.5 million. Lottery officials are urging the winner to come forward soon. If the prize remains unclaimed by next March, it will be forfeited, and the funds will be redistributed. Lottery officials advise the winner to sign the ticket immediately, consult with a financial advisor, and file a claim for the prize. If no claim is made, the money contributed by the 45 participating states, along with Washington, D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands, will be returned and utilized for various state purposes. New Jersey allows winners to remain anonymous if they choose, similar to a recent Powerball winner from June. However, the state will still confirm when a winner steps forward. The winning ticket ended a four-month dry spell for Mega Millions, which had seen 30 consecutive drawings without a jackpot winner. As the clock ticks down, anticipation grows in Neptune Township and beyond, with hopes that the mystery winner will soon claim their monumental prize.