A $197 million Mega Millions jackpot remains unclaimed in California, with the deadline for redemption rapidly approaching. The winning ticket, purchased at a Chevron gas station in Encino, Los Angeles, on December 8, 2023, is set to expire this Saturday.

“We have no way of knowing who has the second jackpot-winning ticket from that incredible night,” said California Lottery spokesperson Carolyn Becker.

The lucky numbers for the draw were 21, 26, 53, 66, 70, with a Megaball of 13. Interestingly, this ticket is one of two that matched all six numbers from that draw. The other winner has already claimed their share of the $395 million jackpot.

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Claiming the Prize

To claim the prize, the winner must mail a claim form postmarked no later than Saturday, December 7, 2024, as lottery offices are closed on weekends. The California Lottery advises using certified mail and keeping a copy of the submission if mailing the claim.

If the prize goes unclaimed, the entire $197 million will be directed to support public education in California.

“While it’s a shame for potential winners to see any winning ticket expire, it does give a helpful boost to California public schools,” Becker explained. “All unclaimed prize money winds up helping support public education, so we can still feel good about it at the end of the day.”

A missed jackpot of this magnitude is quite unusual and serves as a compelling reminder to lottery players everywhere – always check your tickets and know your deadlines. Few prizes of this size ever go unclaimed, which makes this case stand out in lottery history.

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