A tragic incident in Lawrence, Kansas, has left the community in shock as a University of Kansas student lost her life in a hit-and-run accident. The victim, 20-year-old Elsa McGrain, was out for a jog when she was struck by a vehicle whose driver fled the scene. The suspect, identified as 36-year-old William Ray Klingler, has a history of criminal behavior, according to court documents.
The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office reported that the incident occurred near Lawrence Regional Airport around 6 p.m. on Thursday. Despite the early evening hour, McGrain’s body was not found until 3:35 a.m. the following morning by a passerby who called emergency services. She was pronounced dead shortly thereafter, casting a pall over the university community.
Klingler, the driver of the white pickup truck involved in the incident, was apprehended days later, thanks to public tips solicited by the police. His criminal record includes previous charges of driving under the influence (DUIs), attempts to tamper with an ignition interlock device, and interfering with ankle monitor equipment. The ignition interlock device is a mandatory breathalyzer for certain offenders that prevents a car from starting if alcohol is detected in the driver’s breath.
Elsa McGrain was a dedicated student with aspirations of entering the medical field, aiming to graduate in 2026 with a pre-medicine degree. Her untimely death has left a void in the hearts of her family, friends, and the university community. The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, in their statement, underscored the profound loss felt by those who knew her.
Elsa McGrain was a student at the University of Kansas studying pre-med. (Douglas County Sheriff’s Office)
Court records reviewed by Fox News Digital show Klingler has racked up at least two DUIs, trying to disable his vehicle’s ignition interlock and tampering with ankle monitors. The interlock is a breathalyzer that certain drivers must use before starting the car.
As a juvenile in 2003, Klingler was charged with several crimes, including burglary, criminal damage to property and theft. He was placed under intensive supervision probation for those alleged crimes.
“Our hearts go out to Elsa’s family and friends in this incredibly tragic situation,” the sheriff’s office wrote.
William Ray Klingler was arrested after allegedly killing a college student in a hit-and-run incident. (Kansas Department of Corrections)
McGrain was a member of the University of Kansas Chi Omega sorority, which posted a tribute to their Instagram.
“Elsa was the kind of person everyone wanted to be: genuine, kind, and full of light. She noticed the quiet one in the room, checked in on you whether things were good or bad, and was the loyal friend we all strive to be. She had a gift for making everyone around her feel valued and loved,” the Chi Omega chapter wrote.
The sorority said McGrain served on the sorority’s executive board as house manager, “where she led with grace, compassion, and a servant’s heart.”
The suspect’s car fled the scene after the incident, officials said. (Douglas County Sheriff’s Office)
“Our hearts go out to Elsa’s friends, family, and all those who were touched by her light. Her faith, kindness, and sisterhood will forever remain in our hearts,” the sorority wrote.
Klingler hasn’t yet been charged but was booked into jail on suspicion of involuntary manslaughter.
