BARCELONA, Spain (AP) — James “Jimmy” Gracey, a college student from Illinois, was found dead after going missing during a break in Barcelona, with police indicating that he was likely the victim of an accident.
Gracey’s body was discovered Thursday afternoon near the beach where he was last seen outside a Barcelona nightclub early Tuesday morning.
A spokesperson for Catalonia’s regional police stated that all signs point to the University of Alabama student's death being accidental, with an autopsy scheduled for further clarification.
The 20-year-old was last spotted outside Shoko nightclub around 3 a.m. on Tuesday. He did not return to his rented accommodation with friends, which led to concern from family members living in Elmhurst, Illinois. His phone was found by police later on.
In a heartfelt statement, the Gracey family expressed their grief, saying: Our family is heartbroken as we confirm that Jimmy’s body has been recovered in Barcelona. Jimmy was a deeply loved son, grandson, brother, nephew, cousin, and friend, and our family is struggling to come to terms with this unimaginable loss.
Barcelona is known to be a safe city for tourists, with its Mediterranean beaches drawing millions each year. However, fatalities can occur, often due to accidental mishaps, particularly in nightlife areas populated by young visitors.
In an earlier interview, Gracey's aunt referred to him as just a great kid, a good Catholic boy from the Midwest, highlighting the tremendous loss felt by family and friends.
The University of Alabama community has also expressed its sorrow over Gracey’s untimely passing, offering condolences to his family as they endure this tragic situation.
