A college community in New York is mourning the heartbreaking loss of a young athlete whose life was filled with promise, leadership, and academic success.

Emily Mae Smith, a 20-year-old women’s basketball player at the State University of New York at Potsdam, died after she was struck by a vehicle in what police say was a hit-and-run crash.

According to the Potsdam Police Department, officers responded around 3:37 a.m. on Saturday, May 16, to reports of a pedestrian being struck near Pierrepont Avenue in Potsdam. Smith was rushed to Canton-Potsdam Hospital, where she later died from her injuries.

Authorities allege the driver fled the scene immediately after the crash. Investigators later identified the vehicle as an older-model black Cadillac Escalade with front-end damage. Hours later, police located the vehicle on U.S. Route 11 and arrested 18-year-old Jakob D. Krise of Brasher Falls, New York, without incident.

Krise has been charged with leaving the scene of a motor vehicle crash resulting in death, zero-tolerance driving while intoxicated, and driving across hazard markings. Police said the investigation remains active and additional charges could still be filed.

As news of Smith’s death spread, friends, teammates, and school officials began sharing tributes honoring the young woman many described as exceptional both on and off the court.

Smith was a sophomore business administration major and transfer student who had quickly become a leader on the women’s basketball team. SUNY Potsdam President Dr. Suzanne Smith said Emily was already making a major impact during her short time on campus.

“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,” the president said in a statement.

Women’s basketball head coach Brittney Cohen spoke emotionally about losing one of the team’s leaders.

“I am heartbroken by the loss of our captain, Emily,” Cohen said. “She was an extraordinary young woman, beloved by her teammates, coaches and everyone she met. Her presence will be greatly missed.”

Athletic Director Mark Misiak also shared his grief, saying, “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.”

The university has since opened Jerry Welsh Gymnasium as a memorial space where students, teammates, and community members can leave flowers, notes, and messages in Smith’s honor.

Stories like this leave many people searching for answers. A young woman with talent, goals, friendships, and a bright future was gone in an instant. For her family, teammates, and classmates, the pain is unimaginable.

Moments like these are also reminders of how fragile life can be and how deeply one person can impact those around them. By all accounts, Emily Smith was someone who lifted others up through her leadership, hard work, and kindness.

Heavenly Father, we pray for Emily Smith’s family, friends, teammates, and everyone grieving this painful loss. Surround them with Your comfort and strength during this heartbreaking time. We also pray for healing and peace for the entire community affected by this tragedy. Amen.