A Community in Mourning
The SUNY Potsdam community is grieving the loss of 20-year-old student-athlete Emily Smith, who passed away on Saturday, May 16, following a fatal hit-and-run accident near the university campus. The institution officially announced the tragic news on Sunday, May 17.
Details of the Incident and Legal Proceedings
According to reports, local authorities took 18-year-old Jakob Krise into custody on Saturday morning. Investigators allege that Krise was operating a black Cadillac Escalade on New York State Route 56 when he struck Smith. The vehicle reportedly displayed noticeable damage to the front end at the time of the arrest.
Krise is currently facing several serious charges, including leaving the scene of a fatal motor vehicle accident, operating a vehicle while intoxicated under a zero-tolerance policy, and failing to adhere to traffic markings. Following his arraignment in the Town of Pierrepont Court, he was released under probationary supervision and is set to return to court on Wednesday, May 20.
Remembering a Rising Student-Athlete
Emily Smith, a business administration major, was a dedicated student who had earned a spot on the Dean's List and was expected to graduate in 2028. Her coach, Brittany Cohen, expressed the deep impact Smith had on those around her:
“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. Her presence will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family during this very difficult time.”
University president Dr. Suzanne Smith also paid tribute to the student's academic and personal character, noting that she had quickly established a supportive circle of friends and mentors during her time on campus. The accident occurred while Smith was in the company of friends and teammates, just before the university's commencement exercises.
Commemoration and Support
The university has designated the Jerry Welsh Gymnasium as a memorial site where individuals can leave tributes and flowers in honor of the late athlete. The athletic department has stated that a formal commemoration will be held at a later date, and counseling services have been made available for all students and staff members affected by the tragedy.
The loss has been felt across the conference, with various athletic programs—including Buffalo State University and Morrisville State University—offering public messages of support and condolences to the SUNY Potsdam community.