Winner of $ 324 million nearly forgot about ticket
SAN FRANCISCO — California’s $ 324- million Mega Millions jackpot winner Steve Tran had a 3 a. m. epiphany this week that spurred him from sleep and had him fumbling through a pile of lottery tickets on top of his dresser.
“I remembered, I think I went to San Jose,” the delivery driver told California lottery officials, who had publicized that the winning ticket was purchased at a gift shop in that city.
Tran checked his tickets, and the winner was “just sitting in my house, on top of my drawer.”
After hugs from family, Tran phoned his boss.
“I’m really sorry, boss. I hit the jackpot. I don’t think I’m going to come in today, tomorrow, or ever,” Tran remembered.
The $ 648- million jackpot is the second- largest lottery prize in U. S. history. It started its ascent Oct. 4. Lotto officials say 22 draws came and went without winners. Some $ 336 million in tickets were sold for the Dec. 17 drawing.
The other winner, Ira Curry of Georgia, came forward to claim her prize Dec. 18.
Tran, who did not say where he lives, said his family likes to visit San Jose because of the city’s large Vietnamese population. While visiting the area to eat and shop, Tran bought 5 Quick Pick tickets from Jennifer’s Gift Shop, owned by Thuy Nguyen who will receive $ 1 million for selling the winning ticket.
Tran told lottery officials that he saw coverage that the winning ticket had been purchased in San Jose, but had forgotten about his purchase.