Tragedy struck the SUNY Potsdam community this past weekend as Emily Mae Smith, a promising young athlete, lost her life after being struck by a vehicle. The incident occurred early on Saturday morning, prompting an outpouring of grief from friends, family, and university staff.
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Emily Mae Smith, a 20-year-old basketball player and sophomore majoring in business administration from Greenville, New York, was involved in a fatal accident around 3:37 a.m. near Pierrepont Avenue in Potsdam. According to the Potsdam Police Department, officers received emergency reports of a pedestrian being hit by a car and found Smith in critical condition. She was rushed to Canton-Potsdam Hospital, but unfortunately, later succumbed to her injuries.
After the collision, the vehicle, identified as an older black Cadillac Escalade, fled the scene. Through their investigation, police were able to trace the vehicle to U.S. Route 11, where they apprehended the driver, 18-year-old Jakob D. Krise from Brasher Falls, New York, at approximately 7:25 a.m. He was taken into custody without incident.
Jakob D. Krise faces several charges, including leaving the scene of a motor vehicle crash resulting in death, zero-tolerance driving while intoxicated, and driving across hazard markings. Following an arraignment at the Town of Pierrepont Court, he was released under probation supervision. Authorities have indicated that further charges could be forthcoming as the investigation continues, with Krise scheduled to appear in Potsdam Town Court on Wednesday.
Emily’s loss has been deeply felt within the basketball team’s ranks, as she was not only a player but also a captain who left a lasting impression on those who knew her. Coach Brittney Cohen expressed her heartbreak, describing Smith as an “extraordinary young woman” loved by teammates, coaches, and the entire campus community. The emotional tribute echoed further throughout the university.
SUNY Potsdam President Dr. Suzanne Smith remarked on Emily’s academic and personal achievements, noting that even in her first year, she excelled academically and had cultivated a close network of friends and mentors. This testimony highlights not just her prowess on the court, but also her character and influence off it.
Mark Misiak, the athletic director, added his condolences by stating that losing someone so vibrant at such a young age is an immense tragedy. The SUNY Potsdam community has rallied together in remembrance of Emily, as the university has designated Jerry Welsh Gymnasium as a memorial space. Students, teammates, and faculty are encouraged to leave flowers and heartfelt messages in honour of the young athlete’s memory.
As the investigation into the accident unfolds, the SUNY Potsdam community continues to mourn the loss of a bright star whose life was cut tragically short. The circumstances surrounding the incident only add to the sorrow felt by many, as they navigate this difficult time. Emily’s legacy, however, is expected to live on through the memories shared by those whose lives she touched during her time at the university.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the fragile nature of life and the importance of community support in times of grief. As students and staff cope with the loss, the university is focused on providing the necessary resources and support to help the community heal.