Woman wins $3 million in Mega Millions Lottery draw

A Kalamazoo woman has won $3 million after matching all five white balls in the December Mega Millions drawing. The Michigan Lottery confirmed the win on December 5, 2025, after the prize was tripled with a 3X multiplier.

The winner, identified as 79-year-old Carol Bukant, purchased her ticket at JJ Land LLC in Portage. She and her husband said they bought their tickets when the jackpot neared $1 billion, and they were stunned when they realized they won $3 million instead of $1 million.

How the Michigan woman won $3 million

Bukant matched the numbers 01, 08, 11, 12, and 57. Her original $1 million prize increased to $3 million due to a 3X multiplier applied during that draw. The Michigan Lottery confirmed the payout and noted increased excitement around the Mega Millions run that reached $980 million.

Lottery Commissioner Suzanna Shkreli said the jackpot surge helped increase revenue that supports the state’s School Aid Fund. Bukant told officials she plans to save her winnings. Mega Millions tickets cost $5 in Michigan and can be purchased in stores or through official online platforms.

This marks one of the largest recent non-jackpot wins in the state, highlighting how multipliers can significantly increase rewards during high-interest jackpot cycles.

Community reactions and statewide significance

Large Michigan Lottery wins often generate local buzz, and Bukant’s $3 million prize has added to excitement as players continue to watch increasing jackpots. State officials emphasized that high-volume sales benefit public education funding.

The story also reflects ongoing interest in major lottery draws near billion-dollar levels. With more players buying tickets during these periods, additional secondary prizes like Bukant’s become more common.

Bukant’s $3 million win underscores how a single multiplier can change a player’s life. Her quiet plan to save the money closes a remarkable chapter in this Mega Millions run.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: How did the woman win $3 million?

She matched all five white balls and received a 3X multiplier, turning a $1 million prize into $3 million.

Q2: Where was the winning Mega Millions ticket purchased?

The ticket was bought at JJ Land LLC at 4421 West Centre Avenue in Portage, Michigan.

Q3: What were the winning numbers?

The numbers were 01, 08, 11, 12, and 57, confirmed by the Michigan Lottery.

Q4: How does the multiplier work in Mega Millions?

A multiplier can increase non-jackpot prizes when selected. In this case, it tripled the $1 million prize to $3 million.

Q5: What does the Lottery Commissioner say about jackpot runs?

She said they increase sales, which boosts contributions to Michigan’s School Aid Fund.