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

 

Authorities in Lawrence, Kansas have arrested 36-year-old William Ray Klingler in connection with the fatal hit-and-run death of 20-year-old University of Kansas pre-med student, Elsa McGrain. The incident occurred while McGrain was out for an evening run near the Lawrence Regional Airport last Thursday.

Klingler, a repeat DUI offender, was taken into custody Sunday after Douglas County deputies located his vehicle. He has been charged with reckless involuntary homicide, according to KCBD.

Investigators revealed that Klingler’s truck was equipped with court-mandated anti-alcohol ignition devices designed to prevent him from driving while intoxicated. However, authorities say Klingler was able to bypass the safety system, allowing him to operate the vehicle despite his history of impaired driving.

Surveillance footage reportedly captured the moment McGrain was struck around 6 p.m. Thursday. Her body remained undiscovered until a passerby found her more than 9 hours later, at 3:35 a.m. Friday morning.

McGrain, described as compassionate and dedicated, was set to graduate from KU in 2026. Her sorority, Kansas Chi Omega, honored her as a “beloved sister with grace, compassion, and a servant’s heart.”

A fundraiser has since been launched to support the McGrain family with funeral expenses.