Ohio Player Hits $271 Million Mega Millions Jackpot on St. Patrick’s Day
A lucky lottery player in Ohio struck gold on St. Patrick’s Day, winning the massive $271 million Mega Millions jackpot—the first time the prize has ever been claimed on the holiday.
The winning ticket, sold in Ohio, matched all six numbers in Tuesday’s drawing: white balls 4, 11, 18, 38, and 50, plus the gold Mega Ball 24. The winner now faces a life-changing choice—take the full $271 million as a lump-sum cash payout or spread the $60 million prize over 30 years.
A Rare St. Patrick’s Day Win
Mega Millions confirmed this marks the first jackpot ever won on March 17. It’s also the first time since August 2023 that the top prize has been claimed so quickly after resetting.
Ohio has a strong history with Mega Millions, being one of the game’s founding members. Since 2002, the state has produced—or shared—22 jackpot wins. This latest victory adds to that impressive streak.
Thousands of Other Winners
While one ticket took home the grand prize, over 179,000 others won smaller prizes in the same drawing. Standout wins include:
- A $40,000 ticket sold in Arizona
- Two $30,000 tickets in California and New York
- A $20,000 winner in Ohio
What’s Next for Mega Millions?
With the jackpot claimed, Friday’s drawing resets to an estimated $50 million ($22.6 million cash). Players across the 45 participating states, Washington D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands will have another shot at the next life-changing windfall.
As for Ohio’s newest multimillionaire, they have yet to come forward. Lottery officials advise winners to sign their tickets immediately and consult financial advisors before claiming their prize.
— Reported by Nexio News
