A University of Kansas student tragically lost her life in a hit-and-run incident while jogging, according to local law enforcement.
The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office reported in a news release that 20-year-old Elsa McGrain was on an evening run last Thursday when she was struck by a pickup truck. The driver fled the scene immediately. Authorities later identified the suspect as 36-year-old William Ray Klingler, as reported by KMBC.
The incident occurred around 6 p.m. near the Lawrence Regional Airport. Unfortunately, McGrain’s body remained undiscovered until a passerby found her and contacted 911 at 3:35 a.m. Klingler was apprehended a few days later, following a public appeal for information.
McGrain was a pre-medicine student with aspirations to graduate in 2026 from the University of Kansas.
The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office expressed their condolences, stating, “Our hearts go out to Elsa’s family and friends in this incredibly tragic situation.”
“Our hearts go out to Elsa’s family and friends in this incredibly tragic situation,” the sheriff’s office wrote.
McGrain was also a member of the Chi Omega sorority at the University of Kansas, which posted a tribute on Instagram.
The suspect fled the scene in his car after the incident, officials said. (Douglas County Sheriff’s Office)
“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.”
Entrance sign to the University of Kansas. (iStock)
“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.
