Halifax County man wins $209.3 million Powerball prize

Richard Kee Jr. of Roanoke Rapids tried his luck on a $2 Powerball ticket on Jan. 21 and won a $209.3 million jackpot.

The jackpot win represents the second largest prize won in North Carolina lottery history.

Kee chose to remain anonymous for 90 days. Under state law, when a lottery player in North Carolina wins a prize of $50 million or more, the player can choose to keep their win anonymous for up to 90 days after claiming the prize.

Kee bought the winning ticket from West 10th Mart on West 10th Street in Roanoke Rapids. The retailer received a $50,000 bonus incentive for selling a winning Powerball jackpot ticket.

When Kee arrived on Jan. 22 to claim the prize, he had a choice of an annuity of $209.3 million paid in 30 payments over 29 years or a lump sum payment of $95.3 million. He chose the lump sum payment of $95.3 million and, after required federal and state tax withholdings, took home $68.6 million.

For details on how lottery funds make a difference in all of North Carolina’s 100 counties, click on the “Impact” section of the lottery’s website.