New Orleans Man Wins $2 Million In Mega Millions Jackpot

A New Orleans resident, Ernest Crayton Jr., recently won $2 million in the multi-state Mega Millions jackpot drawing held on May 21.

Crayton matched five out of the six Mega Millions numbers. His prize would have been $1 million, but he added the 2x multiplier, doubling his winnings.

After state and federal tax withholdings, Crayton's take-home amount was $1,435,000.

The winning ticket was purchased at Chef Chevron on Chef Menteur Highway in New Orleans.

Chef Chevron Store Manager Jonathan Nguyen shared that upon discovering they sold the winning ticket, he urged regular customers to check their tickets.

While Louisiana hasn't had a Mega Millions jackpot winner yet, the state has seen 20 prizes worth $1 million or more since joining the game in 2012.

The Louisiana Lottery advises all players to sign the back of their tickets immediately after purchase to secure their winnings.