The latest US Powerball drawing on the night of the 12th produced a staggering jackpot of $1.04 billion (approximately RM4.249 billion). This is the second time in recent years that a billion-dollar prize has been awarded, following last year’s record $1.8 billion (about RM7.355 billion) won in Arkansas, and marks the 8th largest jackpot in Powerball history.
The jackpot was won by a single ticket sold at a Hy-Vee gas station west of Springfield, Illinois.
The winning numbers were 4, 26, 66, 67, 69 and the Powerball 9. The lucky winner can choose to receive the full amount in 30 annual installments, or take a lump sum cash payment of about $450 million; both options are before taxes.
Illinois allows lottery winners to claim prizes anonymously, and the winner must claim the prize within one year. The gas station that sold the winning ticket will also receive a $500,000 bonus.
The next Powerball drawing will reset to a starting jackpot of $20 million. Powerball tickets are sold in 45 US states and several overseas territories, with drawings held three times a week.