Loreauville Man Claims $2 Million Powerball Prize

BATON ROUGE – John Francois of Loreauville became the Louisiana Lottery’s latest millionaire after claiming a $2 million match-5 Powerball plus Power Play prize from the Dec. 3 drawing.

The 54-year-old’s winning ticket matched all five white-ball numbers to win $1 million. Since he had purchased the $1 Power Play option on his ticket, his winnings were doubled when the Power Play 2X was selected during the drawing, bringing his total prize to $2 million, which he claimed Monday at Lottery headquarters.

“I’m so glad I played Power Play,” said Francois. “I plan to put my winnings away and just enjoy living life.”

The winning numbers for the Dec. 3 drawing were 08-10-26-27-33 and the Powerball was 22. He received $1.4 million after state and federal tax withholdings.

The winning ticket was sold at PJ’s Country Quick Stop, located on Old Spanish Trail in Broussard. The store received a one-time selling bonus of $20,000, which is 1 percent of the prize.

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