Jimmy Gracey Found: Map Shows Where Alabama Student’s Body Was Recovered

The body of James “Jimmy” Gracey, a 20-year-old college student who went missing earlier this week, was recovered in the water off a beach in Barcelona on Thursday, according to police in Spain.

The remains were found by police divers and positively identified as Gracey, the press office for Catalonia’s regional police in Barcelona told the Associated Press. Police said they are investigating the cause of death.

“We are so grateful for the kindness and concern that has been shown for our family during this incredibly difficult time. We have made the decision to pause media interviews at this time to focus on being together and caring for one another. Thank you for respecting our privacy and holding our family in your thoughts and prayers,” a statement from the family said.

Who was Jimmy Gracey and When Did He Go Missing?

Gracey, who was from Illinois and attended the University of Alabama, had been visiting friends in Barcelona during spring break. The junior originally from Elmhurst had been scheduled to the return to the U.S. on Saturday, relatives previously said.

He was last seen outside the Shoko nightclub in Barcelona before he was separated from his friends at around 3 a.m. on Tuesday. He never returned to the room he was renting with his friends, according to family members.

In an interview conducted before police confirmed Gracey’s death, his aunt told the Associated Press that he was “just a great kid, a good Catholic boy from the Midwest.”

More Related Stories

This undated photo shows James “Jimmy” Gracey. (Gracey Family via AP)

“Very good student, honors program at University of Alabama, chaplain in his fraternity, you know, just an amazing older brother and role model to his cousins,” his aunt Beth Marren O’Reilly said.

Gracey was a member of the Theta Chi fraternity at University of Alabama, and he served as chaplain for the school’s chapter. He was also a philanthropy chairperson.

“The University of Alabama community is heartbroken to learn of the death of Jimmy Gracey,” the University of Alabama told Newsweek. “Jimmy’s loss is deeply felt across our campus. Our condolences are with the Gracey family during this devastating time. We ask that their privacy be respected as they grieve. The University has been in close contact with the family throughout the week and will continue to provide support to them and to Jimmy’s friends, classmates, and all members of our community who are affected by this tragedy.”

Where is Shoko in Barcelona?

Shoko is a nightclub located along Barcelona’s waterfront near Port Olímpic and Barceloneta Beach.

Where Was Jimmy Gracey’s Body Uncovered?

Gracey’s body was recovered by police divers and positively identified, the press office for Catalonia’s regional police in Barcelona told The Associated Press. The body of the University of Alabama student was found near the area where he was last seen outside a nightclub with friends early Tuesday. Gracey had been visiting friends in Barcelona during a spring break trip.

Catalan police said the investigation into the cause of death is ongoing.

Police officers recover the body of a person found in the waters off the Port of Barcelona, Spain, Thursday, March 19, 2026. (AP Photo/Alfonso Beato)