Funeral Set For Alabama Student Killed In Spain

James Paul Gracey's death in Barcelona leaves Elmhurst community heartbroken

Mar. 28, 2026 at 12:40am

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James Paul Gracey, a student at the University of Alabama, tragically drowned during a spring break trip to Barcelona earlier this month. His body was recovered in the sea near Barcelona, leaving his campus community in Tuscaloosa and his hometown of Elmhurst, Illinois in shock and grief. Memorial services have already been held, and funeral services are now set for this Tuesday, March 31st, at Visitation Catholic Church in Elmhurst.

Why it matters

The loss of a young life is always deeply felt, especially when it occurs during what should be a time of celebration and adventure. Gracey's death has devastated his family, friends, and classmates, raising questions about the circumstances surrounding his drowning and the impact on the close-knit Elmhurst community.

The details

Gracey, who was set to graduate from the University of Alabama next year, went to Barcelona with friends for Spring Break. He was last seen at 3 am on March 17th at Shoko nightclub on the beach in Port Olimpico. His family publicly asked for help to find him after he had not answered his phone. Sources have confirmed that some family members have questions about the finding of "accidental drowning", and the toxicology report is still pending.

  • Gracey was last seen on March 17th at 3 am at Shoko nightclub in Barcelona.
  • His family publicly asked for help to find him on March 17th after he did not answer his phone.
  • Memorial services for Gracey have already been held in Tuscaloosa and Chicago.
  • Funeral services are now set for Tuesday, March 31st, at Visitation Catholic Church in Elmhurst, Illinois.

The players

James Paul Gracey

A student at the University of Alabama who tragically drowned during a spring break trip to Barcelona.

Visitation Catholic Church

The church in Elmhurst, Illinois where Gracey's funeral services will be held.

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What they’re saying

“The loss of James has left our community heartbroken. He was a bright, promising young man with so much potential.”

— Elmhurst Resident

What’s next

The toxicology report on Gracey's death is still pending, which could provide more clarity on the circumstances surrounding his drowning.

The takeaway

This tragic incident serves as a somber reminder of the risks students can face during spring break travel, and the profound impact the loss of a young life can have on a close-knit community. It also raises important questions about safety and oversight for students studying abroad.