$5.1M Mega Millions Ticket Sold at CVS Makes State History

A lucky Mega Millions player just scored more than $5.1 million on a ticket bought at a CVS in Corona del Mar — one of California’s biggest second-place wins ever. The winning slip was sold at the store on Jasmine Avenue and Coast Highway.

What made it a near-miss jackpot?
The ticket matched 34, 38, 42, 44, and 69, falling short by only the Mega Ball, 8. Because nobody nationwide hit all six numbers, Tuesday night’s jackpot jumps to an estimated $60 million.

California’s prize structure works a little differently. Instead of fixed payouts, winnings depend on sales and the number of winners — which is why second-place prizes can skyrocket. This $5,104,961 haul now ranks second among the largest five-number Mega Millions wins in the state.

Some standout second-place Mega Millions wins in California include:

• June 17, 2022 — $7.7 million

• December 5, 2025 — $5.1 million

• August 8, 2025 — $4.6 million

• July 29, 2022 — $4.2 million

• January 10, 2023 — $3.9 million

• February 13, 2015 — $3.47 million

• August 8, 2023 — $3.38 million

The odds of matching all five main numbers? A steep 1 in 12.6 million.

The winner hasn’t come forward yet. Once they do, they’ll need to complete verification and file a claim form, available at lottery retailers or through the state lottery. In California, Mega Millions tickets cost $5, with part of every purchase supporting public schools.