University of Alabama Student Found Dead in Barcelona During Spring Break

Jimmy Gracey's body discovered on Somorrostro beach near the nightclub where he was last seen

Mar. 20, 2026 at 5:18pm

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Authorities in Barcelona have announced that the body of University of Alabama student James 'Jimmy' Gracey, 20, was found on Somorrostro beach near the Shôko Barcelona nightclub where he was last seen. Gracey, an accounting major from Elmhurst, Illinois, was reported missing after failing to return to his Airbnb rental during a spring break trip. Police say the evidence points to an accidental death, not a criminal act.

Why it matters

The death of a young American student on spring break abroad is a tragic event that raises concerns about student safety and the risks associated with overseas travel, especially in popular tourist destinations. Gracey's disappearance and the subsequent discovery of his body have prompted an outpouring of grief from his family, friends, and the University of Alabama community.

The details

According to authorities, Gracey was last seen around 3 a.m. local time on March 17 at the Shôko Barcelona nightclub in the Port Olímpic area. He was wearing a white T-shirt, dark pants, and a gold chain with a rhinestone cross. A friend said he saw Gracey at the club, but Gracey failed to return to his Airbnb rental and was reported missing the following day. Investigators focused their search efforts on the waterfront near where Gracey was last seen, deploying helicopters, boats, divers, and ground units. Gracey's wallet was reportedly found floating in the sea near Somorrostro Beach, prompting an intensified search of the surrounding waters. Police are exploring several possibilities, including the chance that Gracey entered the water, and are reviewing surveillance footage to reconstruct a timeline of his final hours.

  • Gracey was last seen around 3 a.m. local time on March 17 at the Shôko Barcelona nightclub.
  • Gracey's body was found on Somorrostro beach on March 20.

The players

James 'Jimmy' Gracey

A 20-year-old junior accounting major at the University of Alabama from Elmhurst, Illinois, who went missing during a spring break trip to Barcelona, Spain.

Taras and Therese Gracey

The parents of James 'Jimmy' Gracey.

Mossos d'Esquadra

The police force in Barcelona, Spain, who are investigating Gracey's disappearance and death.

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What they’re saying

“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.”

— Taras and Therese Gracey, Parents of James 'Jimmy' Gracey

What’s next

Authorities in Barcelona continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Gracey's death, with a focus on reviewing surveillance footage and analyzing any evidence recovered from the scene.

The takeaway

This tragic incident serves as a somber reminder of the risks and challenges that can arise when students travel abroad, particularly during spring break. It underscores the importance of safety precautions, communication with loved ones, and the need for swift and thorough investigations when a student goes missing in a foreign country.