A 20-year-old college student, who was a standout on the basketball team, tragically lost her life in a hit-and-run accident, according to local police.
Emily Mae Smith, from Greenville, New York, was fatally struck by a vehicle around Pierrepont Avenue in Potsdam early Saturday morning, as reported by several news outlets.
Smith had recently transferred to the State University of New York (SUNY) and was pursuing a degree in business administration.
“In her first year at SUNY Potsdam, Emily was already excelling academically, making the dean’s list and forming close friendships and mentorships,” remarked Dr. Suzanne Smith, the dean at NYU Potsdam.
She was walking when an older black Cadillac Escalade hit her. Law enforcement received emergency calls around 3:37 a.m. Saturday regarding the incident.
After being transported to Canton Potsdam Hospital, unfortunately, she succumbed to her injuries.
The vehicle fled immediately after the incident, but around 7:25 a.m., officers located a suspicious vehicle on Route 11 and managed to arrest the driver, identified as 18-year-old Jacob D. Kreis from Brasher Falls, New York.
Kreis faces several charges including leaving the scene of a deadly crash, driving under the influence, and driving carelessly. He was arraigned and released on probation, with a court appearance scheduled for Wednesday as the investigation continues.
The SUNY Potsdam community is in mourning, and the gymnasium will serve as a memorial space for those wanting to honor Emily.
Potsdam’s head coach, Brittney Cohen, expressed deep sorrow, calling her “an extraordinary young woman.” Cohen said, “I’m heartbroken to lose Captain Emily. She was loved by everyone she met and will be greatly missed.”
Athletic Director Mark Misiak echoed these sentiments, stating, “We are devastated by the loss of such a bright soul at such a young age.”
The Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office has been contacted for further details.
