The man accused of the tragic hit-and-run incident that resulted in the death of a University of Kansas student has a prior criminal record, court documents reveal.

According to the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, 20-year-old Elsa McGrain was out for a jog in Lawrence, Kansas, when she was struck by a white pickup truck. The driver fled the scene immediately after the collision. Authorities later identified the suspect as 36-year-old William Ray Klingler, as confirmed to Fox News Digital.

The incident took place around 6 p.m. near the Lawrence Regional Airport. Sadly, McGrain’s body was not discovered until 3:35 a.m. by a passerby who then alerted the authorities. She was pronounced dead shortly thereafter. Klingler was apprehended in the days following the incident, aided by public tips that police had requested in their investigation.

The sheriff’s office noted that McGrain was pursuing a pre-medical degree and was on track to graduate in 2026. Her untimely death has cast a shadow over the university community, where she was a promising student with a bright future.

Elsa McGrain was known for her dedication to her studies at the University of Kansas, where she was enrolled in the pre-med program. Her loss is deeply felt by her peers and faculty. (Image courtesy of the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office)

Court records reviewed by Fox News Digital show Klingler has racked up at least two DUIs, trying to disable his vehicle’s ignition interlock and tampering with ankle monitors. The interlock is a breathalyzer that certain drivers must use before starting the car.

As a juvenile in 2003, Klingler was charged with several crimes, including burglary, criminal damage to property and theft. He was placed under intensive supervision probation for those alleged crimes.

“Our hearts go out to Elsa’s family and friends in this incredibly tragic situation,” the sheriff’s office wrote.

William Ray Klingler was arrested after allegedly killing a college student in a hit-and-run incident. (Kansas Department of Corrections)

McGrain was a member of the University of Kansas Chi Omega sorority, which posted a tribute to their Instagram.

“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,” the Chi Omega chapter wrote.

The sorority said McGrain served on the sorority’s executive board as house manager, “where she led with grace, compassion, and a servant’s heart.”

The suspect’s car fled the scene after the incident, officials said. (Douglas County Sheriff’s Office)

“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,” the sorority wrote.

Klingler hasn’t yet been charged but was booked into jail on suspicion of involuntary manslaughter.