A Bird Collision Foretells a Mega Millions Fortune for a New Jersey Resident

When a Bird Collision Precedes a Mega Jackpot Win

In Union City, New Jersey, an unusual event turned out to be a foreboding sign of unexpected fortune for one local lottery player. When a bird unexpectedly collided with their window one night, this resident had an inkling that something significant was about to happen. Little did they know, they were about to become New Jersey's newest multi-millionaire following their win in the $90 million Mega Millions jackpot.

Recalling the strange occurrence which happened on the night of December 2nd Mega Millions draw at 11 pm, the anonymous winner shared with New Jersey Lottery officials, "I was up [that night], hoping for something. Then — whomp — a bird hit my window. I knew something was coming for me, but I didn't know just what."

An Unanticipated Windfall Marks its Arrival

The peculiar and somewhat eerie event did indeed signify an extraordinary win. They matched all six numbers to secure the $90 million jackpot: 17, 25, 26, 53, and 60, along with gold Mega Ball 16. The numbers were not randomly chosen; each carried special significance commemorating various life milestones.

"I have dreamed of these numbers," confessed the winner while also admitting that these numbers hadn't been bringing them much luck recently. Therefore, during their visit to Garden State News on Bergenline Avenue in Union City, they decided to try their luck with Mega Millions instead.

However, even after the draw took place, the winner was oblivious to their massive win. They decided to check their ticket at a Lottery scanner a week later, only to discover that they were the talk of the town. "People were all about asking, 'Who do you think won the prize?'" they recollected. "I just stood there, watching and sipping my coffee."

The cashier at the store decided to reveal the exciting news once the crowd inside had dispersed. The winner was initially in disbelief before finally being overcome by emotion. As realization dawned, they understood that their life was about to change drastically.

Claiming the Jackpot and Looking Ahead

"This will allow my family to be financially free," said the player, who chose to claim the jackpot as a cash value of nearly $42 million. After tax deductions, they are expected to receive around $22 million.

For selling the jackpot-winning ticket, Garden State News received a $30,000 bonus from the Lottery. "It's great for the player, for us and the community," said Krish Patel, owner of Garden State News for 14 years. "Now, we're one of the lucky stores too."

This win is one of ten Mega Millions or Powerball jackpots won in New Jersey in recent years. Just in 2025 alone, New Jersey's 6,500 lottery retailers have collectively earned almost $200 million in sales commissions and bonuses. James Carey, Lottery Executive Director stated during a news conference at Garden State News last week that "The retailers are the heart and soul of our business." He ended with an optimistic outlook saying, "New Jersey really punches above its weight in terms of big winners. We hope to have even more."