The 10 BIGGEST Lottery Jackpots EVER! (2 of 6)

9. $1.34 billion — July 2022 — Des Plaines, Illinois

Des Plaines is best described as a sleepy Chicago suburb. But that wasn’t the case in July 2022, when news got out that the sole ticket that matched all six numbers in the Mega Millions Lottery had been sold at a Speedway gas station in that very town. Who was the lucky winner? Actually, it ended up being split between two friends who had long ago agreed that if either of them ever won, they’d share half with the other. Lawyers got involved…but not because of petty lawsuits or anything. The pair had meticulously planned everything beforehand, collaborating with attorneys and financial advisors to ensure they had all the necessary arrangements in place once they claimed their prize. 

8. $1.35 billion — January 2023 — Lebanon, Maine

A resident in the small town of Lebanon, Maine—population 6,469—became an instant billionaire in January 2023. He created an LLC called Lacoma Island Investments so that he could claim the winnings, amounting to a lump sum of $723.5 million, in anonymity. Subsequently, he led a fulfilling life. Well, except for the messy lawsuit currently going on. In summary, he asserts that although his ex-girlfriend had promised not to reveal his identity to anyone until their daughter turned 18 in 2032, she ultimately did so. He’s asking for damages. He’s also in a spat with his father, who is siding with his baby mama and says his son promised to pay for his medical bills and buy him a bunch of stuff. Way too much drama going on there.