The manager of the Hy-Vee Gas Fresh & Fast convenience store in Quincy, Illinois, where the $1.04 billion Powerball jackpot-winning ticket was sold, is reportedly close to identifying the winner.
John Marshall, the store's manager, told The Post that he believes he can soon determine the identity of the lucky ticket holder, despite the winner's potential to remain anonymous. Marshall stated that approximately 15% of his customers are travelers, while the majority are regulars. "We kind of know our regular customers, and I’ve seen the majority of them so far this morning," he said, describing the process of elimination as being "like a murder mystery."
Marshall mentioned selling tickets to individuals passing through town, including a maintenance worker who was servicing the store's coffee machine. He was unsure if this individual was local or from out of state.
The winning numbers for the $1.04 billion jackpot were 4, 26, 66, 67, 69, and the Powerball 9. The store where the ticket was purchased will receive a $500,000 bonus for selling the winning ticket. This prize marks the second-largest lottery win in Illinois history and the eighth-largest Powerball jackpot overall.
Quincy, a city of about 40,000 residents situated on the Mississippi River, has experienced a notable buzz following the massive win. Marshall noted that customers are expressing happiness, not just for themselves but for bringing positive attention to their community. "Our regulars are like, ‘Oh, that’s my store,’ and they’re all excited,” he said.
Under Illinois law, lottery winners have the right to remain anonymous if they formally request it. The winner has one year from the draw date to claim the prize. Marshall expressed a desire to meet the winner, at least to shake their hand, and hopes they might be invited to witness the prize claim.
Regarding the store's bonus, Marshall indicated he plans to use it responsibly, primarily to pay off his mortgage and then potentially invest the remainder. "You’ve got to do it smart. Maybe you buy something nice, but for the most part, you’ve got to get rid of your debt," he stated.
Since the jackpot run began on May 4, Powerball tickets sold in Illinois have generated over $21.5 million for the Common School Fund, which supports public education in the state. Harold Mays, Director of the Illinois Lottery, commented on the win, emphasizing that it not only brings excitement to the winner and retailer but also contributes to educational funding across Illinois.