Body of Alabama Student Found at Sea in Barcelona

James "Jimmy" Gracey, 20, was reported missing after leaving a nightclub in the early hours of March 17.

Mar. 19, 2026 at 10:30pm

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The body of University of Alabama student James "Jimmy" Gracey was found at sea off the coast of Barcelona, Spain on Thursday. Gracey, 20, was reported missing after leaving a beachfront nightclub in the early hours of March 17. Spanish newspapers report that foul play has been ruled out, and Gracey's father has been notified.

Why it matters

The disappearance and tragic death of a young American student studying abroad has sparked an international search effort involving multiple government agencies. It raises concerns about student safety and security when traveling overseas, as well as the challenges of investigating missing persons cases across borders.

The details

According to Spanish media reports, Gracey was last seen leaving the Shôko nightclub around 3 a.m. on March 17. A friend who was with him left, but Gracey stayed behind and never returned to the Airbnb where he was staying. Security footage showed Gracey was not alone when he left the club, but police have not identified the other person. Gracey's wallet was later found in the sea during the search. Authorities ruled out foul play in his death.

  • Gracey was last seen at Shôko nightclub around 3 a.m. on March 17.
  • His body was found at sea off the coast of Barcelona on March 19.

The players

James "Jimmy" Gracey

A 20-year-old junior at the University of Alabama from Elmhurst, Illinois who was reported missing in Barcelona while visiting friends.

Therese Gracey

Jimmy Gracey's mother, who described him as a "great person" and "man of upstanding character".

Cavin McLay

A fraternity brother of Jimmy Gracey's at the University of Alabama, who said Gracey served as a mentor and devoted time to philanthropy.

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What they’re saying

“He's a great person, he's a great guy, a man of upstanding character. He's one of those people that's there for anyone when they ever need it.”

— Cavin McLay, Theta Chi fraternity brother

“Jimmy is a kind, responsible, and devoted son and brother. It is completely out of character for him not to check in with family and friends.”

— Gracey family

What’s next

The Catalan Police Department is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding Gracey's death, including the identity of the person seen with him on security footage leaving the nightclub.

The takeaway

This tragic incident highlights the risks and challenges students can face when studying or traveling abroad, and the importance of safety protocols, communication, and international cooperation when responding to missing persons cases across borders.