BARCELONA, Spain (AP) — James “Jimmy” Gracey, a college student from Illinois found dead after going missing while in Barcelona, was likely a victim of an accident, Spanish regional police confirmed on Friday.
Gracey's body was discovered in the Mediterranean Sea off a beach close to a nightclub where he was last seen with friends early Tuesday morning. A spokesperson for Catalonia's police stated that all indications suggest the 20-year-old University of Alabama student's death was accidental, pending an autopsy.
Gracey had been missing since leaving the Shoko nightclub around 3 a.m. on Tuesday, and he did not return to his rented accommodation. Family members, reporting his disappearance, indicated that his phone was later found by the police.
Following the tragic news, the Gracey family provided a heartfelt statement requesting prayers and privacy as they mourned their loss: Our family is heartbroken as we confirm that Jimmy’s body has been recovered in Barcelona. He was a deeply loved son, grandson, brother, nephew, cousin, and friend. We are struggling to come to terms with this unimaginable loss.
Barcelona, known for its vibrant nightlife and Mediterranean beaches, attracts millions of tourists each year, generally regarded as a safe destination, with concerns usually centered around minor thefts. The beach area where Gracey vanished is popular among both locals and visitors, boasting several nightclubs and restaurants.
The University of Alabama also expressed its condolences through a statement: The university community is heartbroken to learn of the death of Jimmy Gracey. His loss is deeply felt across our campus, and our thoughts are with the Gracey family during this devastating time.
The local police continue their investigation into the circumstances surrounding Gracey's death, while his family and friends grapple with the shocking reality of their loss.
