photo by: Contributed

Elsa McGrain

The family of a 20-year-old KU student killed in a hit-and-run Thursday evening in North Lawrence is asking the public to provide any information it can about the case.

Elsa McGrain, of Omaha, Nebraska, was killed around 6 p.m. Thursday as she was jogging on North Seventh Street near Interstate 70. She was studying pre-medicine and was set to graduate in 2026, her family told police.

A passerby notified dispatchers at 3:35 a.m. Friday after discovering her body near the road.

The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office posted a grainy photo of the white or light-colored truck that may have been involved. Anyone who might have been in the area between 5:45 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Thursday is asked to call Detective Lance Flachsbarth at 785-393-5845 or Douglas County Crime Stoppers at 785-843-TIPS (8477).

photo by: Contributed, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office

An image of a white- or light-colored truck the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office suspects was involved in a fatal hit-and-run on Thursday evening. The Sheriff’s Office is seeking the public’s help in identifying the vehicle.

McGrain’s fellow Chi Omega sorority members on Saturday morning said, “It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our beloved sister, Elsa McGrain. 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.”

“Our hearts go out to Elsa’s friends, family, and all those who were touched by her light,” the social media post said. “Her faith, kindness, and sisterhood will forever remain in our hearts.”