Long-Time Powerball Players Claim $1 Million Powerball Prize

Thomas James said he and his wife Debbie stopped in Hammond for coffee and a Louisiana Lottery Powerball ticket while on their way home from a cruise that docked at the Port of New Orleans. That ticket went on to win them $1 million in the Feb. 7 drawing.

The 67-year-old Byram, Miss. resident’s Quick Pick ticket matched all five white-ball numbers but missed the red Powerball number to win $1 million. Though avid Powerball players, James said, “I’m not usually lucky.”

They received $700,000 after federal and state taxes were withheld. The couple said the win will ultimately help them better prepare for retirement. The winning ticket was purchased at RaceTrac #084 in Hammond. The store will receive a one-time selling bonus of $10,000, which is 1 percent of the prize.

Ticket purchasers must be at least 21 years of age. Draw-style game tickets must be claimed within 180 days of the drawing. Anyone who may have a gambling problem or friends and family of anyone with a gambling problem should call toll free 1-877-770-7867 for help.

For security purposes, the Lottery strongly encourages players to sign the back of their tickets immediately after purchasing. More information about other Powerball winners can be found on the Lottery’s website, www.louisianalottery.com.