PHOTOS: Elsa McGrain, University of Kansas Pre-Med Student, Killed in Lawrence Hit-and-Run: Suspect Arrested 4 Days After Tragedy

Elsa McGrain, 20, a pre-med student at the University of Kansas, tragically lost her life after being struck in a hit-and-run while jogging near the Lawrence Regional Airport on Thursday evening, November 5.

The incident occurred around 6:00 p.m., when McGrain was jogging near the airport. She was fatally struck by a truck, and it wasn't until 3:35 a.m. Friday, nearly 9.5 hours later, that her body was discovered by a passerby, who immediately called police, according to a statement from the Douglas County Sheriff's Office.

William Ray Klinger, 36, of Lawrence, was arrested and booked into the Douglas County Jail in connection with one count of involuntary manslaughter and one count of failure to appear

William Ray Klinger, 36, of Lawrence, was arrested and booked into the Douglas County Jail in connection with one count of involuntary manslaughter and one count of failure to appear

Surveillance footage later identified the hit-and-run driver behind the wheel of an all-white pickup truck. Following an extensive investigation, including tips from the public, authorities were able to arrest the suspect on Sunday, November 9, four days after the incident.

The victim, Elsa McGrain, was originally from Omaha, Nebraska, and had been attending the University of Kansas, where she was expected to graduate in 2026. She was a pre-med student and a beloved member of the Chi Omega sorority. In a heartfelt tribute, her sorority sisters described McGrain as "genuine, kind, and full of light," someone who "noticed the quiet one in the room" and was "the loyal friend we all strive to be."

 

Elsa McGrain, University of Kansas Pre-Med Student, Killed in Lawrence Hit-and-Run

 

Elsa McGrain, University of Kansas Pre-Med Student, Killed in Lawrence Hit-and-Run

The Douglas County Sheriff's Office expressed condolences to McGrain's family and friends, saying, "Our hearts go out to Elsa's family and friends in this incredibly tragic situation."

Authorities are still investigating the crash and are urging anyone who might have information or who was in the area of E. 1500 Road between 5:45 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. on Thursday to come forward.

Police continue their diligent investigation into the hit-and-run, assuring the public they will work through the justice system to ensure the driver is held accountable.