New Bedford resident wins $1 million prize

Roger Merlo Cruz of New Bedford is the eighth $1 million prize winner in the Massachusetts State Lottery’s “Diamond 9’s” instant game.

Merlo Cruz chose the cash option on his prize and received a one-time payment of $650,000 (before taxes). His winning ticket was purchased at Sam’s Food Stores, 367 Ashley Blvd. in New Bedford. The store will receive a $10,000 bonus for its sale of the ticket.

Two $4 million prizes and four $1 million prizes have yet to be claimed in the “Diamond 9’s” $10 instant game.