Favorite numbers pay off for California jackpot winner

Drawing Date: 4/28/2017

May 15, 2017 - David Trapp has been playing the same five California Lottery numbers for many years. Therefore, when he bought $6 worth of Mega Millions tickets for the April 28 and May 2 draws (three chances for each date), it was a no-brainer that his special five numbers (birthdays of family members) were the first ones he selected. He let the computer choose (Quick Pick®) the Mega number.

After all those years trying his luck at winning the Lottery, Trapp’s dedication paid off when his lucky ticket matched all six numbers (6-13-18-20-31 and Mega number 13) during the draw late last month. When the dust had cleared, California’s second Mega Millions jackpot winner so far this year, had won $61 million! Trapp now has the option of taking the $61 million (before federal taxes) spread out in annual payments over 30 years, or choosing the lump sum cash option of $37.2 million.

“It really hasn’t sunk in. It’s either real or a very long and detailed dream,” Trapp said. “I don’t really see myself as a millionaire. It’s a big change. We’re going to take it one step at a time.”

Trapp says he’s thinking about buying a new house with his newfound fortune. “Will probably set up a few trusts…just try to be sensible about [all the money].”

The most money Trapp had previously won playing the California Lottery was “only” $480. He said he won it a couple of years ago playing Fantasy 5. So, does the Golden State’s latest huge jackpot winner think $61 million is going to change him as a person? “I hope I’m not going to change. I just won’t have financial concerns any longer!”

The 7-Eleven in Laguna Hills where Trapp bought his lucky ticket (27001 Moulton Parkway) wins as well! It is receiving a $305,000 retailer bonus just for selling the winning ticket. [The bonus is paid from a separate fund and is not deducted from the winner’s prize.]