Shelton Could See $800M Winner In Record Powerball Jackpot

FAIRFIELD COUNTY, Conn. -- Even for Fairfield County, $800 million is a lot of money. But with the Powerball jackpot surging to that record number Friday, one lucky person could see their dreams become reality after Saturday night's drawing.

Bill John of Trumbull buys his Powerball ticket Thursday from Nada Ghalayini at Nick's Grocery in Bridgeport.
Photo Credit: *Meredith Guinness*

Casey Donahue

01/08/2016 3:35 p.m.

Residents around the county have been buying their tickets in bulk in hopes of hitting the jackpot, which is the largest in U.S. history with a $596 million cash payout before tax. Connecticut came close to having a winner after Wednesday's drawing, with a $1 million ticket being sold in Hartford County.

Though some people may be tempted to spend all of Friday's paycheck on tickets in a bid to increase their chances, lottery officials are reminding customers to play responsibly.

"We encourage players to know their limits, and stay within them," said CT Lottery President and CEO Anne M. Noble. "When jackpots reach levels in the hundreds of millions of dollars, remember that responsible purchasing is the way to play. Lottery games are fun and entertaining, and it is important that customers use good judgement."

Hundreds of retailers across Connecticut sell Powerball tickets. Click here to find the closest one near you.

The drawing for Saturday's prize will be shown at 10:59 p.m. on WCCT-TV.

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