In Loving Memory of Emily Mae Smith

In Loving Memory of Emily Mae Smith

The Potsdam community and countless loved ones are mourning the heartbreaking loss of Emily Mae Smith, a 20-year-old SUNY Potsdam student whose life was tragically taken during the early morning hours of May 16, 2026.

According to the Potsdam Police Department, officers responded at approximately 3:37 a.m. to Pierrepont Avenue following reports of a pedestrian being struck by a motor vehicle. Emily was transported to Canton-Potsdam Hospital, where she sadly succumbed to the severe injuries she suffered in the crash.

Authorities say the vehicle involved fled the scene immediately after the collision, leaving behind a devastated community searching for answers. Through the course of the investigation, officers identified the suspect vehicle as an older-model black Cadillac Escalade with front-end damage. Later that morning, police located the vehicle traveling on U.S. Route 11 east of the Village of Potsdam and arrested 18-year-old Jakob D. Krise of Brasher Falls without incident.

The suspect now faces charges including Leaving the Scene of a Motor Vehicle Crash Resulting in Death, Zero Tolerance Driving While Intoxicated, and Driving Across Hazard Markings. Officials have stated that the investigation remains active and additional charges may still be pending.

But beyond the details released by authorities, this tragedy is ultimately about a young woman whose future was filled with promise. Emily Mae Smith was more than a student, more than a headline, and more than a victim of a terrible accident. She was a daughter, a friend, a classmate, and a loved one whose life touched many people around her.

At only 20 years old, Emily was still building her dreams and creating memories that those closest to her will now hold onto forever. The suddenness of this loss has left an enormous void in the hearts of her family, friends, fellow students, and the entire SUNY Potsdam community.

College years are often filled with hope, ambition, friendship, and plans for the future. For those who knew Emily, it is difficult to comprehend that such a vibrant young life could be taken so suddenly and tragically. Her loved ones are now left carrying the unbearable weight of grief while trying to honor the beautiful person she was.

As the community reflects on this devastating incident, many are also reminded of the importance of responsibility, accountability, and the lasting consequences that reckless decisions can bring. One tragic moment has forever changed multiple lives and left a family mourning a loss that words can hardly describe.

The outpouring of condolences and support surrounding Emily’s passing shows just how deeply she was loved. In moments like these, communities often come together to comfort one another, share memories, and ensure that a life taken too soon is never forgotten.

We extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, classmates, professors, and everyone affected by the passing of Emily Mae Smith. May they find strength in one another and comfort in the memories she leaves behind.

Rest peacefully, Emily. Your life mattered, your memory will live on, and you will never be forgotten.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the Potsdam Police Department at (315) 265-2121.