A Northern California man who split December’s $636 million Mega Millions jackpot waited weeks to tell the world — but wasted no time kissing off his employer.
“I’m really sorry, boss. I hit the jackpot. I don’t think I’m going to come in today, tomorrow — or ever,” the winner, Steve Tran, a delivery driver, told his work supervisor by phone.
On Thursday, Tran finally walked into state lottery headquarters in Sacramento with a ticket worth an annuitized $318 million before taxes, officials said, ending a two-week mystery surrounding his identity.
Tran, who bought his ticket at a San Jose gift shop, can receive a lump sum — $173 million after taxes. California lottery officials declined to say whether he chose that option or an annuity.
They also withheld Tran’s age, hometown and other personal details, saying he did not want to talk to the media. Instead they released only a press release identifying the winner.
The other winner, Ira Curry of Georgia, claimed her cash last month in a single payment, lottery officials said.
The jackpot started its climb in October and hit $636 million — the second-largest lottery prize in US history — after 22 consecutive draws produced no winning ticket.