In a tragic turn of events, 20-year-old James Gracey, a student from the University of Alabama, was found deceased in Barcelona on Thursday. Law enforcement officials suggest that he might have been under the influence of drugs at the time of his death.
A source shared with FOX News Digital that investigators are considering the possibility that Gracey fell into the ocean at Somorrostro Beach while either intoxicated, drugged, or a combination of both. More details can be found here.
Authorities are awaiting the completion of an official autopsy and toxicology tests before making a conclusive determination. If drugs are detected in his system, it remains uncertain whether they were self-administered or if there was any external involvement.
As reported by El Periódico, a preliminary autopsy has dismissed any foul play and aligns with the police theory that Gracey accidentally fell into the water and drowned.
Previously, CrimeOnline reported that authorities from Mossos d’Esquadra found Gracey’s body after he disappeared on March 17. He had been visiting the Shôko beachfront restaurant and nightclub with friends in Barcelona’s Port Olímpic area. For further details, visit this link.
According to La Vanguardia, Catalan police discovered his remains approximately four meters deep in the waters of Barcelona’s Port Olímpic. More information can be accessed here.
A video obtained by law enforcement showed Gracey walking alone, headed toward a dock area before falling into the water.
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On Thursday, police found Gracey’s wallet floating in water near Somorrostro Beach. The discovery happened after aquatic and drone searches began searching the area. The wallet had cash, credit cards, and his identification inside.
Police also arrested a man who had Gracey’s phone.
According to FOX, a law enforcement source stated that the man is someone known to authorities, and has previous arrests for theft. Police believe he may have found the phone and picked it up without interacting with Gracey.
Gracey had been on a personal spring break trip to the country to visit friends who study abroad. According to CNN, Gracey’s flight back home was scheduled for Saturday.
“Our family is heartbroken as we confirm that Jimmy’s body has been recovered in Barcelona,” a family statement read.
“Jimmy was a deeply loved son, grandson, brother, nephew, cousin, and friend, and our family is struggling to come to terms with this unimaginable loss.”
Check back for updates.
[Feature Photo: Family Handout]
