The Mega Millions jackpot continues to grow, reaching an estimated $575 million for Friday night’s drawing. This is the first time in 10 months that the jackpot has neared $600 million.

California has seen its share of notable Mega Millions winners over the years.

In November 2024, Michael Chavez of Tulare County discovered he had matched five numbers from that night’s $303 million drawing, winning $1.2 million. The ticket was purchased at Lake Liquor, which earned a $6,000 retailer bonus.

In 2023, Ilene Souza of Hilmar came within two digits of hitting the record-breaking $1.58 billion jackpot but still walked away with $3.38 million.

California’s largest Mega Millions win remains from December 2013, when Steve Tran split a $648 million jackpot with another player in Georgia. Tran mad

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