*Robert Bailey, 67, the Manhattan man who won the largest jackpot in New York Lottery history came forward Wednesday to claim a Powerball ticket worth $343.9 million.
Bailey, a retired federal employee, purchased the ticket at the West Harlem Deli on Fifth Avenue shortly before the Oct. 27 drawing. He chose the lump sum payment and will take home a little more than $125 million after taxes, CBS2 reported.
“A family member gave me the numbers over 25 years ago and I faithfully play them,” Bailey said. “I buy my tickets at three or four different stores. It was raining that day so I went to the deli to get out of the rain and I bought my ticket there.”
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Bailey said he was shocked when he checked his ticket online.
“I said to myself, ‘These look like my numbers.’ I tried to remain calm and sat down to watch some shows I had on my DVR. I didn’t sleep the rest of the night,” he said.
The winning numbers were 8, 12, 13, 19, 27 and the Powerball 4. Bailey split the $687 million jackpot with 51-year-old Lerynne West, of Iowa, the report states.
Bailey took his time coming forward because he made the smart move of securing a lawyer and financial adviser.
“I’m blessed,” Bailey said. “I’m still somewhat in shock. I’m happy. I’m taking my time.”
He’s also shared how he plans to spend some of the money.
“I’m gonna get a house, especially for my mother. God bless her, she’s still around. I definitely want to travel a little bit and hopefully, I make some good investments that will work for me and my family.”
He also intends to keep playing the lottery.
“It’s a good life-changer. I plan to do the right thing with the money,” Bailey said. “I will continue to playing my numbers until this train runs out.”
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