Record-Setting Lottery Victory
On November 7, 2022, Edwin Castro from Altadena, California, achieved a remarkable feat by winning the biggest Powerball jackpot in American history, totaling $2.04 billion.
Nearly three months later, on February 14, 2023, which coincided with Valentine's Day, Castro formally collected his winnings at California Lottery headquarters. He chose to remain off-camera and declined photographic opportunities during the event.
Financial Details and Property Acquisitions
Following his monumental win, Castro transformed into an instant multi-millionaire and gained considerable public attention. He opted for the lump sum payment, receiving approximately $997.6 million from the California Lottery.
In March 2023, Castro made significant real estate investments. He purchased a $25.5 million estate in Hollywood Hills on March 1, and just eight days later, acquired a $4 million mansion in Altadena with views of the San Gabriel Mountains.
Later that year, in September 2023, Castro added a $3.85 million beachfront property in Malibu to his collection. This two-bedroom home offered ocean views near the Pacific Coast Highway.
Wildfire Impact and Recent Developments
In January 2025, the Palisades wildfire devastated Castro's Malibu residence. Satellite imagery confirmed the complete destruction of this property, which was among numerous structures affected by the blaze that consumed nearly 24,000 acres.
Despite this loss, Castro's other California homes in Hollywood Hills and Altadena escaped major damage from the wildfires.
In an October 12, 2025, interview with the Wall Street Journal, Castro revealed he had invested $10 million in 15 lots within his hometown of Altadena following the destructive California wildfires earlier that year. He also discussed his comprehensive 10-year real estate strategy during this conversation.
The Wall Street Journal further reported in October 2025 that Castro ultimately received $768 million from his historic lottery win.
Additional Context
Castro purchased his winning ticket from Joe's Service Center in Altadena, California. This location has since attracted visitors seeking good fortune, with some touching the establishment's window sign for luck.
While Castro's winnings made him an overnight multi-millionaire, he fell just short of billionaire status by less than $3 million. His security arrangements include round-the-clock protection.
Beyond Castro's grand prize, Powerball officials noted that 22 additional tickets across 16 states won $1 million each by matching all five numbers except the Powerball.
