For one lucky Illinois resident, a routine stop at a southwest suburban gas station turned into a life-changing event, thanks to a $10 gamble on the state’s Lotto game. The anonymous winner, who goes by the nickname “Rainy Day Fund,” is now $1 million richer after matching all six Lotto Million 1 numbers in the July 10, 2025 drawing. The winning ticket was purchased at the Citgo gas station located at 8755 West 79th Street in Justice, Illinois, according to an Illinois Lottery news release and coverage by FOX 32 Chicago.
It was a spur-of-the-moment decision that paid off handsomely. “I play the lottery once in a while when I have extra cash,” the winner said in a statement released by the Illinois Lottery. “I hadn’t played in a while, but the jackpot was nearly $12 million, so after filling up my gas tank, I decided to buy $10 worth of Lotto tickets with the Extra Shot add-on.”
Despite the allure of the nearly $12 million jackpot, the winner’s purchase was modest—just $10 worth of tickets, enhanced by the Extra Shot feature. That small investment yielded a windfall that far surpassed the winner’s initial expectations. “At first, I thought I had won $1,000,” the winner recalled. “Then I scanned it again, and a few more zeroes popped up. I had to do a double-take and scanned it about 20 more times before it finally sank in. I was freaking out.”
The moment of realization came the day after the drawing, while the winner was at work. News had spread that someone in Justice had hit the jackpot, prompting “Rainy Day Fund” to check their ticket using the Illinois Lottery app. The disbelief was understandable—after all, winning $1 million is no everyday occurrence. While the initial scan suggested a smaller prize, persistence (and perhaps a bit of hope) led the winner to keep scanning until the full magnitude of the win became clear.
So, what does one do with a sudden seven-figure windfall? For “Rainy Day Fund,” the answer is both practical and celebratory. “My friends are in the financial industry, so I’m hoping they’ll help me invest wisely,” the winner shared. But there’s also room for joy: “One thing’s for sure—I’ll be using some of it for my wedding and honeymoon next year.” According to both the Illinois Lottery and FOX 32 Chicago, the winner’s immediate plans include setting aside funds for savings and investments, as well as earmarking a portion for upcoming nuptials in 2026.
While the winner’s identity remains a secret, their story has captured the imagination of locals and lottery enthusiasts across the state. The Citgo station in Justice, now the site of a million-dollar moment, has seen a surge of interest. It’s not every day that a neighborhood gas station becomes the backdrop for such a dramatic turn of fortune. For many, the story serves as a reminder of the thrill—and unpredictability—of games of chance.
Illinois’ Lotto game, in which “Rainy Day Fund” struck gold, is an Illinois-only draw held three times a week: Monday, Thursday, and Saturday. Tickets are available not only in stores but also online and via the Illinois Lottery app, making participation accessible to residents throughout the state. The game’s allure lies in its simplicity and the tantalizing prospect of life-changing prizes. As the Illinois Lottery points out, anyone can play, but only a few will ever experience the kind of shock and joy that comes with a million-dollar win.
This particular win comes at a time when lottery jackpots across the United States have been making headlines, with multimillion-dollar prizes capturing the public’s attention. Yet, as this story shows, even a $1 million prize can have a profound impact on a winner’s life. The winner’s approach—balancing prudent financial planning with personal celebration—offers a glimpse into the real-world effects of such unexpected fortune.
It’s worth noting that the winner’s decision to remain anonymous is not unusual. Many lottery winners choose to keep their identities private, citing concerns about privacy and security. By adopting the nickname “Rainy Day Fund,” this winner underscores the practical mindset that often accompanies sudden wealth. The moniker also hints at a sense of humor and perhaps a bit of superstition—a nod to the idea of saving for a rainy day, though few would expect such a literal downpour of luck.
For those inspired by this story, the Illinois Lottery reminds players that Lotto tickets can be purchased at retail locations, online, or through the official app. Drawings are held thrice weekly, offering regular opportunities for hopefuls to test their luck. The game’s structure, with its various add-on features like Extra Shot, allows players to tailor their experience and potentially boost their winnings. Still, as the Illinois Lottery emphasizes, responsible play is key—after all, the odds of winning any major lottery prize are long, and windfalls like this are rare.
In the broader context, stories like this highlight the enduring appeal of the lottery in American culture. From small towns to big cities, the dream of hitting it big continues to motivate millions. Whether it’s a modest prize or a record-breaking jackpot, the possibility of sudden wealth remains a powerful draw. For “Rainy Day Fund,” that dream has become a reality, and their story serves as both inspiration and cautionary tale—proof that sometimes, lightning really does strike.
As for the Citgo station in Justice, it now holds a place in local lore as the site of a million-dollar win. Residents and regulars may find themselves glancing at the lottery display a little more closely, wondering if they might be next. And while the odds remain slim, the story of “Rainy Day Fund” is sure to fuel a few extra daydreams—and maybe a few more ticket sales—across Illinois.
For one anonymous player, a routine trip for gas became a moment they’ll never forget. With plans for a wedding, a honeymoon, and a secure financial future, “Rainy Day Fund” has plenty to celebrate—and a story to tell for years to come.
