SUNY Potsdam Student and Basketball Star Killed in Hit-and-Run
A tragic incident occurred involving a young college student who was making strides both academically and athletically. Emily Mae Smith, a 20-year-old from Greenville, New York, was struck and killed in a hit-and-run while near Pierrepont Avenue in Potsdam early on a Saturday morning. The Potsdam Police Department released a statement confirming the event.
Smith, who transferred to the State University of New York (SUNY) Potsdam, excelled in her studies as a business administration major. She was recognized for her academic achievements by being named to the Dean’s List during her first year. SUNY Potsdam President Dr. Suzanne Smith reflected on Smith’s impact, noting she had quickly formed strong relationships with friends and mentors.
On the morning of the incident, Smith, a sophomore and a member of the SUNY Potsdam women’s basketball team, was near campus when she was struck by a vehicle. The suspect vehicle, described as an older-model black Cadillac Escalade, fled the scene immediately.
First responders transported Smith to Canton-Potsdam Hospital, where she was later pronounced dead due to her injuries. Authorities located the vehicle involved in the incident at around 7:25 a.m. on U.S. Route 11, east of the village of Potsdam. The driver, identified as 18-year-old Jakob D. Krise from Brasher Falls, New York, was taken into custody without incident.
Krise faces charges for leaving the scene of a motor vehicle crash resulting in death, zero tolerance driving while intoxicated, and driving across hazard markings. He was arraigned in Town of Pierrepont Court and released under probation supervision. Krise is scheduled to appear in Potsdam Town Court on the upcoming Wednesday. Police continue to investigate the case.
In remembrance of Emily Smith, SUNY Potsdam designated the Jerry Welsh Gymnasium as a space for the campus community to gather and honor her memory. Smith’s coach, Brittany Cohen, expressed her sorrow, saying, “I am heartbroken by the loss of our captain, Emily. She was an extraordinary young woman, beloved by her teammates, coaches, and everyone she met.” Athletic Director Mark Misiak echoed this sentiment, describing the loss of such a promising soul as a tragedy.