The body of James “Jimmy” Gracey, a 20-year-old American student, was recovered Thursday afternoon in Barcelona, Spain, authorities said. The discovery comes after a multi-day search for Gracey, who was last seen early Tuesday morning near the Port Olímpic.
Police found Gracey’s body on a breakwater near Somorrostro Beach, according to reports. The investigation is focused on officially identifying the remains and determining the cause of death, though initial hypotheses suggest he may have drowned. An autopsy is planned.
Catalan police activated a sea search for Gracey Thursday morning, deploying Aquatic and Underwater Units, as well as a drone team. Sources close to the investigation told EL PERIÓDICO that a witness reported seeing the young man walking toward the sea the night he disappeared. Police have so far ruled out foul play.
James Paul Gracey, ‘Jimmy’, the American student missing in Barcelona / Therese Marren Gracey
Gracey, a junior accounting student at the University of Alabama, was visiting friends studying in Europe during his spring break. He arrived in Barcelona on Monday and was scheduled to depart Saturday. The case has drawn significant attention from U.S. News outlets as family members described him as a highly responsible young man.
Gracey’s family, from Elmhurst, Illinois, had been appealing for information and have traveled to Barcelona. According to reports, Gracey was last seen around 3 a.m. Tuesday leaving the Shoko Barcelona Lounge with a friend, who returned to their Airbnb even as Gracey remained at the club. He never returned to the lodging and hadn’t been in contact with family or friends since.
Police had been reviewing security footage and interviewing potential witnesses. They also searched the apartment where Gracey was staying. After receiving information suggesting he had headed toward the sea, the search focused on the water.
Poster in Catalan posted in the Port Olímpic area / Zowy Voeten
According to reports, police recovered Gracey’s cell phone after finding it with a known local criminal, who claimed to have found it on the beach. The phone was turned over to authorities and is being examined.
Family and Friends Issue Statement
The case has garnered attention from U.S. Media outlets. Gracey’s family described him as “responsible” in statements to NBC and CBS News, and noted it was uncharacteristic for him to be out of contact.
Poster in Catalan posted in the Port Olímpic area / Zowy Voeten
The Gracey family stated they are working closely with local authorities and expressed gratitude for the support they have received.
Fraternity Members Pray for Gracey
Members of Gracey’s fraternity, Theta Chi at the University of Alabama, issued a statement prior to the confirmation of his death, expressing concern for his well-being and asking for privacy. They described Gracey as a young man of “impeccable character” and asked for prayers.
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