PASSAIC, N.J. – Pedro Quezada's neighbors are thrilled that one of their own has struck it rich winning the $338 million Powerball jackpot.
The 44-year-old bodega store owner went to a Passaic liquor store, where his ticket was sold, late Monday afternoon. The owner ran Quezada's ticket though the lottery machine and validated that it was a winner, as a newspaper and television outlets recorded the moment.
Quezada told reporters in Spanish that he was "very happy" and that he intends to help his family.
The New Jersey Lottery confirms that the winning ticket was validated at the liquor store Monday, but officials say they don't yet know the winner's name.
It's the fourth-largest jackpot in Powerball history. A lump sum payout would be $221 million, or about $152 million after taxes.
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