(Source-Michael Reynolds_Epa, Rex)
Tuesday’s eagerly anticipated Mega Millions drawing faced an unexpected hurdle as the winning numbers were delayed by more than an hour due to unforeseen “technical difficulties.” Instead of the customary live drawing, viewers were informed of the delay and assured that the process would resume under the supervision of an auditor once the malfunction was rectified.
After the prolonged wait, the winning numbers were eventually released, unveiling a jackpot of $178 million following the absence of a winner in Tuesday’s drawing. Had a fortunate player clinched the $148 million jackpot, they would have walked away with an estimated $66.1 million after taxes, provided they opted for a lump-sum payment.
Viewers Left Waiting as Mega Millions Numbers Released Late Due to Technical Issues
In a separate stroke of luck, the Arizona Lottery announced the sale of a Powerball ticket worth a staggering $1 million at a Phoenix gas station. The winning entry for Wednesday’s drawing hailed from the QuikTrip located at 8233 N. Seventh St., positioned north of Northern Avenue. Although the ticket matched all five white numbers drawn — 24, 29, 44, 47, and 54 — it narrowly missed the red Powerball of 2.
The fortunate prize winner must claim their bounty within 180 days of the drawing, with the winning ticket originating from the QuickTrip at 51st Avenue and Lower Buckeye Road. Each winner will receive a pre-tax payout of $52,631.58.
QuikTrip Sells Winning Powerball Ticket, Arizona Lottery Announces $1 Million Prize”
Reflecting on the joyous occasion, the Arizona Lottery’s customer service team expressed delight in witnessing the recipients’ reactions upon receiving their prizes. “The best part was when we were passing out all the checks. They were all so happy, hugging each other, and some even crying. It was very special and fun to witness,” the team shared in a press release.
For those eager to test their luck, Powerball tickets are readily available for $2 per entry at over 3,000 Arizona Lottery retail locations across the state. Drawings for Powerball are conducted thrice weekly on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday evenings.
The popularity of Powerball extends far beyond Arizona, with the game sanctioned in 45 states, in addition to the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. As anticipation builds with each drawing, hopeful participants eagerly await their chance to strike it rich amidst the excitement of the lottery’s suspenseful proceedings.
