A University of Kansas student was struck and killed in a hit-and-run while jogging, and investigators are asking the public to help identify the driver.
Twenty-year-old Elsa McGrain of Omaha, Neb., was jogging in Lawrence, Kan., around 6 p.m. local time on Thursday, Nov. 6, when the incident occurred, according to a Nov. 8 media release from the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO).
In a previous release, authorities said a passerby contacted police dispatch at 3:35 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 7, reporting “a person near the road.” Deputies later confirmed that the individual — identified as McGrain — had died.
The DCSO shared information about a white pickup truck that may be a “vehicle of interest” and urged anyone with knowledge of the vehicle or its driver to reach out.
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Investigators are also asking anyone who may have been in the area “on E 1500 Road between 5:45 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.” on Nov. 6 to contact DCSO Detective Lance Flachsbarth at 785-393-5845 or Douglas County Crime Stoppers at 785-843-TIPS (8477) and leave their contact information.
McGrain was studying pre-medicine and was expected to graduate in 2026, the DCSO noted.
“Our hearts go out to Elsa’s family and friends in this incredibly tragic situation,” the agency said in its Nov. 8 statement.
McGrain was a member of the Chi Omega sorority, whose members posted a tribute to her on Instagram on Nov. 8.
“It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our beloved sister, Elsa McGrain,” they wrote.
“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. She had a gift for making everyone around her feel valued and loved,” they continued.
The message concluded: “Our hearts go out to Elsa’s friends, family and all those who were touched by her light. Her faith, kindness and sisterhood will forever remain in our hearts.”
