A DOZEN lucky Powerball players became overnight millionaires on Saturday, but all narrowly missed out on the $1 billion jackpot by just one number.
Lottery fever struck the nation after the Powerball draw on Wednesday saw the jackpot roll over to a whopping $950 million.
After no one scooped the $1 billion prize on Saturday, it has rolled over to a staggering $1.1 billion (stock)[/caption]
Lottery fever hit the nation this week as the Powerball jackpot hit $950 million causing a major surge in sales (stock)[/caption]
As a result, scores of people went out to buy tickets which saw lottery officials declare on Friday that the top prize had reached $1 billion for Saturday’s draw.
However, despite best efforts by players, no one bagged the massive windfall which has rolled over again for the 39th time in a row to a staggering $1.10 billion.
Players now have the chance to try to become an overnight billionaire with the next draw on Monday night.
The estimated cash value is $498.4 million.
“America has waited all year for the chance to play for a billion-dollar jackpot, and what better time than Labor Day for a $1.1 billion Powerball drawing!” Matt Strawn, Powerball Product Group Chair and Iowa Lottery CEO, said.
“With just one $2 ticket, you could win it all – all while helping to support good causes close to home.”
While no one took home the top prize on Saturday, 12 lucky players made their own small fortunes by scooping the second tier prize of $1 million.
Three of them even managed to double their winnings to $2 million with the Power Play – which they paid an extra $1 for.
Lottery officials are now hunting for the winners – urging players to check their tickets for the winning numbers.
They were white balls 3, 18, 22, 27, 33 and red Powerball 17.
Those who won $1 million and $2 million correctly matched all of the white balls, only missing the jackpot over the red Powerball number.
Four of the $1 million tickets were sold in California, and the rest in Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, Massachusetts and Pennsylvania.
Meanwhile, the $2 million-winning tickets were sold in Colorado, Indiana, and New Hampshire.
Other big wins from Saturday night include 27 tickets worth $150,000 and over 100 for the prize of $50,000.
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Lottery officials are hunting for the winners from Saturday night (stock)[/caption]
