Michigan Lottery winner Amanda Clayton dies of apparent overdose - Boston News, Weather, Sports | FOX 25 | MyFoxBoston

Michigan Lottery winner Amanda Clayton dies of apparent overdose

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Amanda Clayton in a Wayne Co. court in July 2012. Amanda Clayton in a Wayne Co. court in July 2012.
Amanda Clayton in a September 2011 photo. Amanda Clayton in a September 2011 photo.
ECORSE, Mich. (WJBK) -

A local Lottery winner is found dead from an apparent drug overdose. Amanda Clayton made headlines after she won $1 million but was charged with welfare fraud. Her life was filled with drama and trouble following that lottery win. 

Fox 2's Ronnie Dahl has reaction on her death from Ecorse.

It was just over a year ago when Clayton hit it big in the Michigan Lottery. She was seen smiling and holding up a $1 million check on Sept. 11, 2011. But, money did not solve her problems. Those who knew her believe it may have contributed to her death. The 25 year old took a lump sum payment and after taxes walked away with about $500,000. Then, Amanda made national headlines when it was discovered she was still collecting welfare benefits.

Also see: Neighbors: Lincoln Park lotto winner hired trio to kill them (Video)

"The Amanda I knew was caring person," said Josh Ormanian, her former boyfriend. "She did care. She went down the wrong path, she got the money, got the freedom, and felt like she could do whatever she wanted. Some people don't have will power."

Ormanian says Amanda was known to use prescription drugs. Her body was discovered at her friend's house on Sunnyside St. in Ecorse around 9 o'clock Saturday morning. It's believed she died of an overdose. Her young daughter was at her side.

Recently, Clayton was also involved in an altercation with her neighbors. She was due back in court this week. The Wayne County Medical Examiner will determine the exact cause of death.

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