Lake Charles Resident Claims $10,000 Powerball Prize

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Virginia Thibodeaux of Lake Charles nearly fell to the ground when she realized she won $10,000 playing Powerball on May 8. 

Thibodeaux, who originally thought she won $100, was shocked when a store clerk told her the store would be unable to cash the ticket because it was worth so much money.  Lottery retailers may cash winning tickets up to $600 only.

"I was so excited I went straight home to tell my husband," explained Thibodeaux.  "I told him gently, 'I have something to tell you, but I don't want you to have a heart attack -- I think we won $10,000 on the Powerball!'"

Thibodeaux's ticket matched four of the five white-ball numbers drawn and the red Powerball number to win $10,000.

She purchased her winning ticket from 5 Star Quick Stop #2 on Sam Houston Jones Parkway in Lake Charles.   Thibodeaux, age 69, said she plans to use her winnings for her granddaughter's private school tuition. 

The winning numbers for the May 8 Powerball drawing were 05-22-34-41-57 and the Powerball number was 31.

Ticket purchasers must be at least 21 years of age. The Lottery encourages anyone who may have a gambling problem or friends and family of anyone with a gambling problem to 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.