Va Lottery's $348 Million Jackpot Winner Claims Prize, Boosts Virginia Education Funding

The winner of Virginia's record-breaking $348 million Mega Millions jackpot has come forward while choosing to remain anonymous, as permitted by state law for prizes exceeding $1 million. The substantial prize was claimed approximately four weeks following the June 27 drawing at the Virginia Lottery headquarters in Richmond.

This latest win, marking the largest lottery jackpot ever won in Virginia, was a result of a ticket purchased at E & C Mid Atlantic on Northumberland Highway in Burgess. This ticket, successfully matching the numbers 18-21-29-42-50 and the No. 2 Mega Ball, secured the win for a player choosing the one-time $155.6 million cash option before taxes.

The E & C Mid Atlantic store received a $50,000 bonus for selling the winning ticket, a reward collected by the store’s Vice President of Operations, Juan Torres, on July 22. This winning ticket adds to the history of success in Virginia, being the tenth Mega Millions jackpot claimed in the state since the game’s inception in 2002.

In keeping with tradition, the anonymous winner has expressed plans to make a unique initial purchase—a zero-radius riding lawn mower. Nevertheless, Virginia Lottery Executive Director Khalid R. Jones emphasized the importance of purchasing tickets only from licensed retailers or through the official website, underscoring the need to avoid scams. Jones also encouraged responsible play, advising players to set and adhere to a personal budget for lottery participation.

Proceeds from the Virginia Lottery are allocated to benefit K-12 public education within the state, contributing over $901 million in Fiscal Year 2025, which comprises around 10% of Virginia’s educational funding. This financial support evidences the lottery’s significant role in bolstering state education funding.

Mega Millions draws occur every Tuesday and Friday, and while the jackpot remains unclaimed as of the last draw, anticipation continues to grow. Future jackpots, still to be won, promise new opportunities for participants hoping to join the ranks of past winners like Virginia's anonymous claimant. The next draw, anticipated to further boost the excitement and engagement of countless players, is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, September 2.