A beloved college basketball player has tragically died after being struck in a hit-and-run accident in upstate New York. Emily Mae Smith, 20, a sophomore business administration major at the State University of New York (SUNY) Potsdam, succumbed to her injuries early Saturday morning following the incident in Potsdam, New York.
Details of the Incident
According to the local police department, officers responded to a call at 3:37 a.m. reporting a pedestrian struck by a motor vehicle. Smith was found at the scene and rushed to a nearby hospital, where she later died. The suspect vehicle fled immediately after the collision but was later identified as a black Cadillac Escalade.
Approximately four hours later, officers located the suspect, identified as 18-year-old Jakob D. Krise, and took him into custody. Police stated that Krise has been charged with leaving the scene of an accident, driving while intoxicated, and driving across hazard markings.
Tributes Pour In
The university community has been deeply affected by Smith's passing. SUNY Potsdam President Dr. Suzanne Smith paid tribute, noting that Emily was with her teammates at the time of the crash. She said, "In her first year here at SUNY Potsdam, Emily was already excelling academically, being named to the Dean's List, and had built a tight knit circle of friends and mentors. Emily was with teammates and friends at the time of the incident, and many more friends, classmates, coaches and supporters joined together with her family while she was at the hospital. We mourn Emily's loss as one campus community, and hold her family, friends, and loved ones in our hearts at this difficult time."
Head Coach Brittany Cohen added, "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."
Director of Athletics Mark Misiak also expressed grief, stating, "We are heartbroken and devastated by the news of Emily's passing. To lose such a bright soul at such a young age is a tragedy. On behalf of all Potsdam Bears, I send Emily's family our deepest, most heartfelt condolences."
Legal Proceedings
Krise was arraigned in Pierrepont Court and released under probation. He is scheduled to appear in court again on Wednesday as the police investigation continues.
