by LAWRENCE, KS — A 20-year-old college student described as “beloved” and “full of light” was struck and killed in a devastating hit-and-run crash while jogging near Lawrence Regional Airport on Thursday evening, authorities confirmed. The victim, Elsa McGrain, a University of Kansas pre-med student, was not discovered until nearly 10 hours later, sparking outrage and grief across the campus community.
According to the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, Elsa was jogging along a rural road around 6 p.m. when she was struck by a white pickup truck. Her body wasn’t found until 3:35 a.m. Friday, when a passerby noticed her on the side of the road and immediately alerted police. Investigators determined that she died shortly after the impact.
Suspect Arrested After Community Tips
Authorities launched a widespread search for the driver responsible, sharing surveillance photos of a white pickup truck believed to be connected to the collision. Within days, police announced that they had located both the vehicle and the suspect thanks to multiple community tips.
The driver, William Ray Klingler, 36, was arrested and booked on suspicion of involuntary manslaughter and failure to appear charges, according to reports from KMBC News.
Police say Klingler fled the scene after hitting McGrain, leaving her alone on the roadside. He is currently being held without bond, as the investigation continues in coordination with the Douglas County District Attorney’s Office.
Authorities have not yet confirmed whether alcohol, drugs, or speeding played a role in the deadly crash.
A Promising Life Cut Short
McGrain, originally from Omaha, Nebraska, was a junior at the University of Kansas, expected to graduate in 2026 with plans to attend medical school. Friends and classmates described her as ambitious, kindhearted, and deeply involved on campus.
She was also a proud member of the Chi Omega sorority, where she served on the executive board as house manager. Her sorority sisters posted a touching tribute on Instagram, mourning the sudden loss of one of their most cherished members.
“It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our beloved sister, Elsa McGrain,” the post read.
“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.”
The tribute described Elsa as someone who “had a gift for making everyone around her feel valued and loved,” a sentiment echoed by professors and classmates who knew her personally.
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Authorities and Community Express Sympathy
The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office expressed gratitude to residents who came forward with vital information that led to Klingler’s arrest. Officials said those tips were crucial in identifying the vehicle involved.
“The Sheriff’s Office thanks area law enforcement agencies for their assistance in this investigation, as well as members of the community who responded with possible tips and shared information,” authorities said in a statement.
“We continue to extend our deepest sympathies to Elsa McGrain’s family and friends during this incredibly tragic time and ask the community to continue to support them.”
Friends and community members have since organized online memorials and candlelight vigils in Elsa’s honor, celebrating her memory and advocating for safer roads near campus.
Justice for Elsa
As the case moves forward, prosecutors are reviewing potential additional charges against Klingler. For now, the community’s focus remains on honoring Elsa’s life — a young woman whose compassion and ambition left an unforgettable mark.
Authorities urge anyone with further information about the crash to contact the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office.
What do you think about this tragic case? Should Kansas implement stricter penalties for hit-and-run drivers?
Share your thoughts in the comments at mikeandjonpodcast.com.
