Batavia’s big Lotto winner still hasn’t come forward
By Linda Girardi For The Beacon-News December 28, 2012 3:46PM
A sign proclaiming the store sold the winning ticket hangs in the window of the 7-11 in Batavia on Wednesday, December 19, 2012 that sold the $7 million winning lotto ticket. | Brian Powers~Sun-Times Media
Updated: January 31, 2013 6:43AM
BATAVIA — No one has stepped forward yet to claim the $7.25 million Illinois Lotto jackpot from a ticket sold at the 7-Eleven store on East Wilson Street here.
The winner matched all six numbers on a Quick Pick ticket on the Dec. 17.
“Winners can come forward within a day, week or a couple of weeks — it varies,” Lottery spokesman Elizabeth Leonard said.
Leonard said it is not uncommon for people to take time to consult with a financial advisor or take into account other decisions pertinent to winning a prize that large.
She said one Little Lotto winner, Jacob S. from DeKalb, waited nearly 10 months before claiming his $200,000 prize last February. Jacob S. said he had no particular reason for waiting so long.
But Leonard said the winner does have to make a decision within 60 days to accept the cash option or annuity payment.
“If they don’t come forward within 60 days, they automatically receive the annuity payment which is done over a span of years,” Leonard said.
The winner can also remain anonymous, she added.
This is the second time within the year an Illinois Lottery player has hit the jackpot in Batavia. A Batavia resident, who the Lottery identified only as James B., claimed a $3 million prize in a St. Patrick’s Day drawing in March. The ticket was sold at the 7-Eleven at 710 E. Fabyan Parkway.
