Baton Rouge Woman Claims $2 Million Powerball Prize
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Buetta Smith stepped forward Tuesday to claim the $2 million Louisiana Lottery Powerball prize from the Aug. 15 drawing.
The 63-year-old Baton Rouge resident’s ticket matched all five white-ball numbers but missed the red Powerball number to win $1 million. The ticket included the $1 Power Play option, which increased the prize to $2 million, and the winner received $1.4 million after federal and state taxes were withheld.
The winning ticket was purchased at La Express 11 on Airline Hwy. in Livonia. The store will receive a one-time selling bonus of $20,000, which is 1 percent of the prize.
“This is a big deal,” said Johnny Ewing, La Express 11 owner. “When I saw we had sold the ticket I thought it was unbelievable. I had to check twice!"
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.