Vietnam Veteran Wins Lotto Jackpot Playing Familial Numbers

Sherman Washington III won the $375,000 Lotto Jackpot during the Louisiana Lottery’s June 3 drawing, by playing the numbers of a special date – the birthday of his mother, son and grandson.

The Amite resident was visiting New Orleans this weekend to bring a relative to the airport, but before leaving for his early Sunday morning drop-off, Washington quickly called the Lottery’s winning numbers hotline. “I heard five matches, and when the recording said that last number I almost fell out of my chair!” Washington exclaimed. “I didn’t think I would be able to drive to the airport!”

Once the 62-year-old returned from his quick trip to the terminal, he had an important call to make. “I hit it! I hit it!” Washington recalled exclaiming to his wife. “I hit the Lotto!” He continues, “Yeah, she was wide awake then.”

The winning ticket was purchased at Petro Save located on Gentilly Boulevard in New Orleans. The store received a one-time selling bonus of $3,750, which is 1 percent of the prize.

Washington claimed his winning ticket at Louisiana Lottery headquarters on Monday, June 5. The winning numbers for the June 3 drawing were 04-05-19-20-21-22. He received $262,500 after federal and state tax withholdings.

Washington, a Vietnam veteran, plans to pay some bills and take his wife on a cruise with his prize money.

Lottery 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 Lotto and other jackpot winners can be found on the Lottery’s website, www.louisianalottery.com.

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