BARCELONA, Spain (Journos News) – Catalan police said Thursday that the body of a 20-year-old U.S. college student who had been reported missing earlier this week was recovered from waters off a Barcelona beach, with authorities continuing an investigation into the cause of death.
According to police statements provided to The Associated Press, the body of James “Jimmy” Gracey, a student at the University of Alabama, was located by police divers and subsequently identified. Officials said the recovery took place near the area where he was last seen in the early hours of Tuesday.
Investigation Details
Police said Gracey was last seen outside a beachfront nightclub in Barcelona at approximately 3 a.m. on Tuesday, after becoming separated from friends. Authorities later recovered his mobile phone, which prompted contact with his family in the United States.
Catalan regional police confirmed that inquiries remain ongoing and have not publicly determined the circumstances surrounding his death. No additional details regarding possible causes or contributing factors have been released.
Timeline of Events
Family members said Gracey had been traveling in Europe during a spring break trip. He reportedly spent several days in Amsterdam before arriving in Barcelona earlier this week.
Relatives became concerned when he failed to return to his accommodation after the night out. Authorities later informed the family that his phone had been recovered, though details about how it was found have not been disclosed.
Family Statement
In a statement issued Thursday, the Gracey family confirmed the recovery of his body and requested privacy.
“Our family is heartbroken as we confirm that Jimmy’s body has been recovered in Barcelona,” the statement said. “We are profoundly grateful for the support and ask for privacy as we grieve.”
Institutional Response
The University of Alabama said in a statement that the campus community was “heartbroken” by the student’s death and extended condolences to his family.
Gracey was identified by the university as an honors program student and an active member of a campus fraternity, where he held leadership and service roles.
Public Safety Context
Barcelona is a major international tourist destination, drawing millions of visitors annually. Authorities generally classify the city as safe, though police regularly advise visitors to remain aware of petty crime risks in crowded areas.
The beachfront district where Gracey was last seen includes a concentration of nightlife venues frequented by both residents and international visitors.
Ongoing Status
Police emphasized that the investigation remains active. Officials have not indicated whether foul play is suspected and have not announced any arrests or charges in connection with the case.
Further updates are expected pending the results of forensic examinations and continued investigative work.
