Man Wins $19 Million Illinois Lottery Jackpot

ROSCOE, Illinois – (PRESS RELEASE) -- The Illinois Lottery announced today that John Wood of Roscoe, IL is the state's newest millionaire after winning a $19 million prize in the Lotto game.

Mr. Wood has been playing the Lottery since it began 30 years ago. He has won numerous smaller prizes, but none of them matched the feeling he had after winning $19 million.

"When I first realized I had won, I was in a state of disbelief," said Mr. Wood. "Then I was just thinking 'Wow, OK, now what do I do? Is this for real? Are there any other winners?'" He has not decided what he will do with the money but plans to save as much of it as possible after helping his family.

"The Illinois Lottery is very excited for Mr. Wood and his family," said Lottery Superintendent Carolyn Adams. "This is one of the largest jackpots of the year and we wish Mr. Wood all the best as he decides what to do with his winnings."

The winning ticket was purchased at the Roscoe Quick Mark located at 5755 Elevator Rd. in Roscoe, IL. The retailer will receive a 1 percent retailer incentive bonus for selling the winning ticket.

Founded in 1974, the Illinois Lottery is a state agency with annual sales of $1.7 billion. Since its inception, the Lottery has contributed more than $12 billion to the state Common School Fund to assist K-12 public schools. Players must be at least 18 years old. For more information on the Illinois Lottery and its 30th Anniversary, please visit our Web site at http://www.illinoislottery.com .