New York Resident Wins Record-Breaking $476M Mega Millions Jackpot

Johnnie Taylor, a 71-year-old resident of Howard Beach, Queens, has won an unprecedented $476 million in the Mega Millions jackpot, making it the largest game prize ever won in New York since its inception in 2002. Taylor, who recently retired from his job as a building handyman in Manhattan, expressed disbelief at his incredible fortune. When he initially shared the news with his wife, she was skeptical, prompting him to go online and confirm his winning numbers.

With the cash value of the prize, Taylor will take home over $157 million after state and federal withholding. He intends to fulfill his dream retirement by embarking on travels, purchasing a new home, and acquiring a hybrid vehicle. 

Additionally, Taylor plans to donate a portion of his winnings to his local church as a gesture of gratitude.

Liberty Beer and Convenience, where Taylor purchased the winning ticket, will also benefit from his good fortune, receiving a $10,000 bonus from the state lottery. The New York State Gaming Commission Chairman, Brian O'Dwyer, congratulated Taylor on his historic jackpot win, emphasizing the positive impact of such wins on New York's public schools and lottery retailers.

Taylor's remarkable triumph adds to a series of lottery luck experienced by New Yorkers. In January, four Mega Millions tickets worth $1 million each were sold across different areas of the state.