William Ray Klingler, Lawrence Kansas Man Arrested in Fatal Hit-and-Run That Killed KU Pre-Med Student Elsa McGrain [PHOTOS]

Authorities have arrested a repeat drunk driver in connection with the fatal hit-and-run that claimed the life of a University of Kansas student who was struck and left for dead while jogging last week.

William Ray Klingler, 36, of Lawrence, Kansas, was taken into custody Sunday after investigators with the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office located his vehicle believed to have been involved in the crash that killed Elsa McGrain, a 20-year-old pre-med student at KU. Klingler, who has a lengthy history of DUI arrests, now faces charges of reckless involuntary manslaughter, according to officials.

Investigators said Klingler had circumvented anti-alcohol devices that were installed in his truck to prevent him from driving while intoxicated. Despite those safety measures, he allegedly managed to start the vehicle and drive under the influence, leading to the deadly collision.

Pre-Med Student Elsa McGrain

Surveillance footage captured McGrain jogging near the Lawrence Regional Airport around 6 p.m. on Thursday when she was struck by a vehicle that fled the scene. Her body was not discovered until approximately 3:35 a.m. Friday — more than nine hours later — when a passerby came across the tragic scene.

The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office described the crime as “heartbreaking and senseless,” and said that their investigation quickly led to Klingler as a suspect after locating a damaged vehicle consistent with the incident.

McGrain’s family described her as a dedicated and compassionate young woman who dreamed of becoming a doctor. The University of Kansas student, set to graduate in 2026, was known for her intelligence, empathy, and strong sense of purpose.

William Ray Klingler, Lawrence Kansas Man Arrested in Fatal Hit-and-Run That Killed KU Pre-Med Student Elsa McGrain

Her sorority, Kansas Chi Omega, shared a statement on Instagram mourning her loss, writing that McGrain was a “beloved sister” who led “with grace, compassion, and a servant’s heart.”

In the wake of her death, friends and supporters have launched a fundraiser to assist the McGrain family with funeral expenses, reflecting the outpouring of love and grief from the KU community.

Klingler remains in custody as prosecutors prepare formal charges. Authorities have not said whether additional charges will be filed related to his prior DUI offenses or the alleged tampering of his court-ordered alcohol interlock device.

The case has reignited frustration over the dangers of repeat drunk driving offenders — and the devastating cost when such individuals are allowed back on the road.

Pre-Med Student Elsa McGrain