Hoosier Lotto Mega Millions Winners Staying Private

By Mike Perleberg (Indianapolis, Ind.) - A family friend of the people who won the $536 million Mega Million jackpot say they'll stay in Indiana. They just don't want to be known. The family is putting the money, $271 million after taxes, into a trust called Warren D, LLC. The July 8 drawing winning ticket purchased at a I-70 convenience store in Cambridge City, Indiana was cashed in last Friday. It is the largest jackpot claim in Hoosier Lottery history. The lotto held a news conference Saturday, but the family decided to skip it. Their friend and family spokesperson, Lauren Littlefield, said the winning family purchased five chances in the July 8 drawing. "The family was headed out of state on a trip for their children's travel sports activities, as they had done many times before. They made a quick stop at a gas station just off the I-70 exit in Cambridge City for gas and a few other items," Littlefield said. "On a whim, they purchased five Mega Millions tickets after seeing the jackpot was so high." The numbers they had on their tickets were randomly selected. "The family feels extremely blessed but also overwhelmed," said Littlefield. "They have chosen to remain private to protect the safety and well-being of their children. Their priorities are to use the winnings to pay off debt, plan for their children’s futures, and take care of their family long-term." The spokesperson said the family loves living in Indiana and plans to stay here raising their children and supporting others.