RALEIGH, N.C. — Someone in North Carolina has hit the jackpot -- literally. According to the NC Education Lottery, someone in the state won Saturday's Powerball jackpot of $344.6 million.
The winner had a single ticket with all six numbers matching. The winning numbers were 6, 15, 34, 45 and 52, with a Powerball of 8.
The ticket owner can choose from an estimated annuity of $344.6 million given over 30 payments in 29 years, or a lump sum payment of $223.3 million.
“This is a life-changing event and we’re excited that someone in North Carolina won this jackpot,” said Mark Michalko, executive director of the N.C. Education Lottery, according to a press release.
The NC Education Lottery said the winner has 180 days to claim their prize.
This marks the fifth time that North Carolina has had a Powerball jackpot winner. It's the seventh time someone in North Carolina has won either a Powerball or Mega Millions jackpot.
The NC Education Lottery did not say where the winning ticket was purchased, but NBC station WRAL in Raleigh is reporting that the winning ticket was sold at a grocery store in Hope Mills.