Elsa McGrain Obituary News: A 20-year-old student from KU, Elsa McGrain, has been recognized as the individual involved in a deadly hit-and-run incident occurring to the north of Lawrence.

 LAWRENCE, Kan. — Officials have confirmed the identity of the runner who was fatally struck by a vehicle on Thursday evening, north of Lawrence, as 20-year-old Elsa McGrain, a student at the University of Kansas hailing from Omaha.

As per the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office (DGS), McGrain was jogging in the 1700 block of East 1500 Road around 6 p.m. on Thursday when a vehicle collided with her. A bystander found her near the roadside in the early hours of Friday and contacted authorities at 3:35 a.m.

According to deputies, McGrain, who resided in Lawrence and was studying pre-medicine, was expected to complete her degree next year. “Our condolences are with Elsa’s family and friends during this incredibly sorrowful incident,” stated the DGS in an announcement made Saturday afternoon.

Investigators suspect that the vehicle involved in the incident was a completely white truck that lacked any identifying markings. Deputies and detectives are actively pursuing the investigation and searching for the individual responsible for the crash.

“Our deputies and detectives are committed to conducting a thorough investigation, identifying the driver involved, and proceeding appropriately through the justice system from that point,” commented DGS spokesperson George Diepenbrock.

Authorities are requesting that anyone who has information regarding the vehicle, or who was present in the vicinity between 5:45 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, to get in touch with Detective Lance Flachsbarth at 785-393-5845 or contact Douglas County Crime Stoppers at 785-843-TIPS (8477).

The tragic passing of McGrain has profoundly affected the KU community and those familiar with her. Friends and peers remember her as a bright, dedicated young woman passionate about helping others and possessing a promising future ahead.