CHICAGO (AP) — Authorities in Spain have stepped up their search efforts for James 'Jimmy' Gracey, a 20-year-old student from Illinois who was reported missing after a night out with friends in Barcelona. Gracey, a University of Alabama student visiting friends studying abroad, was last seen around 3 a.m. on Tuesday outside Shoko nightclub, a popular venue near Barceloneta Beach.
Gracey's family, residing in Elmhurst, a suburb west of Chicago, expressed their concerns, noting that it is uncharacteristic of him not to check in with loved ones. A family statement emphasized his kindness and responsible nature while requesting public support in locating him.
The Catalan police have engaged in comprehensive searches, including aerial and underwater patrols in areas surrounding the nightclub where Gracey was last seen. Friends who remained in Barcelona have begun distributing missing person flyers featuring Gracey’s photo and the details of his disappearance.
The University of Alabama has also shown its support, stating, We are keeping Jimmy and his family at the forefront of our thoughts, and encouraged anyone with information to contact local authorities. Gracey is a member of the Theta Chi fraternity, where he holds two positions within the school's chapter.
Since his disappearance, the fraternity's CEO, Michael Mayer, has been in touch with federal lawmakers and the university to provide ongoing assistance.
The search efforts reflect a growing concern in both the American and local communities as family and friends remain hopeful for Gracey's safe return.
