On a quiet evening near the SUNY Potsdam campus, 20‑year‑old Emily Mae Smith, a sophomore business administration major and standout guard on the women’s basketball team, was struck by a vehicle and died. The news sent shockwaves through the university and the surrounding town.
Police quickly identified the suspect as 18‑year‑old Jakob D. Krise, who was apprehended and charged with leaving the scene of a fatal crash, along with additional offenses including zero‑tolerance DWI and driving across hazard markings. Investigators say the vehicle involved was an older‑model black Cadillac Escalade with front‑end damage.
A community in mourning
Coach Brittney Cohen described Smith as an extraordinary young woman who was beloved by teammates and coaches alike, while university president Dr. Suzanne Smith praised her academic excellence, noting that she had earned Dean’s List honors in her first year and contributed positively to campus life.
The investigation remains active, with authorities indicating that further charges may be forthcoming as evidence is examined. In the wake of the tragedy, SUNY Potsdam has designated the Jerry Welsh Gymnasium as a memorial space where students and faculty can pay their respects.
The incident has reignited conversations about road safety and the impact of violent crime on young athletes, underscoring the fragility of life beyond the basketball court. As the campus grieves, the memory of Emily Mae Smith continues to inspire those who knew her.