A tragic hit-and-run crash in New York has left the SUNY Potsdam community mourning the loss of a young college athlete. Authorities say a women’s basketball player was killed after being struck by an SUV whose driver allegedly fled the scene before later being arrested.
SUNY Potsdam Basketball Player Killed in Hit-and-Run Crash
Emily Mae Smith, a 20-year-old student and women’s basketball player at SUNY Potsdam, died early Saturday morning after being hit by a vehicle near Pierrepont Avenue in Potsdam, New York.
According to the Potsdam Police Department, officers responded around 3:37 a.m. after receiving reports of a pedestrian struck by a vehicle.
Smith was taken to Canton-Potsdam Hospital, where she later died from her injuries.
Police Arrest 18-Year-Old Driver
Investigators said the driver fled immediately after the crash.
Authorities later identified the suspect vehicle as an older-model black Cadillac Escalade with noticeable front-end damage.
Around 7:25 a.m., officers located the SUV traveling on U.S. Route 11 east of Potsdam and arrested the driver without incident.
Police identified the suspect as Jakob D. Krise, 18, of Brasher Falls, New York.
Charges Filed Against Suspect
Krise is now facing several criminal charges connected to the fatal crash.
According to police, the charges include:
| Charge | Details |
|---|---|
| Leaving the scene of a fatal crash | Related to Smith’s death |
| Zero tolerance DWI | Alleged alcohol-related offense |
| Driving across hazard markings | Traffic violation |
Authorities also stated that additional charges may still be filed as the investigation continues.
Suspect Released Under Supervision
Police said Krise was arraigned in Town of Pierrepont Court.
After the court hearing, he was released under probation supervision.
Officials confirmed he is scheduled to appear again in Potsdam Town Court on May 20.
Emily Smith Remembered by University Community
Emily Smith was a sophomore majoring in business administration at SUNY Potsdam.
She was also a transfer student and member of the university’s women’s basketball team.
University officials described her as a hardworking student who had already made a strong impact on campus.
SUNY Potsdam President Dr. Suzanne Smith said Emily had excelled academically and built close friendships during her short time at the university.
Coach and Teammates Mourning Loss
Women’s basketball head coach Brittney Cohen described Smith as an “extraordinary young woman” who was deeply loved by teammates and coaches.
Athletic director Mark Misiak also expressed grief over the tragic loss, calling her death heartbreaking and devastating.
The university community has continued sharing messages of support and remembrance following the tragedy.
Campus Memorial Created in Her Honor
SUNY Potsdam announced that Jerry Welsh Gymnasium would serve as a memorial area where students, teammates, and community members can leave flowers and written tributes.
The memorial has become a gathering place for those mourning the loss of the young athlete.
Investigation Remains Ongoing
Police say the crash investigation is still active, and additional details could emerge in the coming days.
Fatal hit-and-run incidents involving suspected impaired driving continue to raise concerns about road safety and accountability.
The death of Emily Mae Smith has deeply affected the SUNY Potsdam community, with many remembering her as a talented student-athlete whose life ended far too soon.
