Teen Charged After Fatal Hit-and-Run Near SUNY Potsdam Campus

An 18-year-old driver was charged after police said he left the scene of a crash that killed 20-year-old SUNY Potsdam women's basketball player Emily Smith early Saturday morning near campus. The driver, Jakob D. , was charged with leaving the scene of a motor vehicle crash resulting in death, zero tolerance driving while intoxicated and driving across hazard markings.

U.S. m. ET and took Krise into custody.

M. and was transported to Canton-Potsdam Hospital, where she was pronounced dead, according to police. She was with teammates and friends at the time of the incident. Police said the investigation remains active and additional charges may be pending.

Krise was arraigned in Town of Pierrepont Court and released under probation supervision. He is scheduled to appear in Potsdam Town Court on Wednesday.

Potsdam president Suzanne R. Smith said the college shared Smith's identity with permission from her family. The statement noted that many friends, classmates, coaches and supporters joined together with her family while she was at the hospital. ," the statement said, adding that Smith was a transfer student and member of the SUNY Potsdam Bears women's basketball team.

Potsdam head coach Brittany Cohen said in a statement, "I am heartbroken by the loss of our captain, Emily. " Smith appeared in 19 games for the Bears in the 2025-26 season.