Suspect identified in death of college student who was killed while running, authorities say

LAWRENCE, Kan. (KCTV/Gray News) - The suspect in the death of a Kansas college student who was killed in a hit-and-run has been identified, according to authorities.

According to the sheriff’s office, 36-year-old William Ray Klingler was arrested on Sunday.

He was charged with reckless involuntary homicide, coming three days after he allegedly hit and killed 20-year-old Elsa McGrain.

On Friday, Douglas County deputies found a body near the road in the 1700 block of E 1500 Road in north Lawrence.

The body was identified as McGrain.

Investigators determined she was hit around 6 p.m. Thursday, likely while she was out running.

According to the McGrain family, she was a pre-med student at the University of Kansas, set to graduate in 2026.

Kansas Chi Omega, a KU sorority, posted on Instagram saying McGrain was a beloved sister who served as house manager, leading with “grace, compassion, and a servant’s heart.“