BARCELONA, Spain — James “Jimmy” Gracey, a college student from the Chicago suburbs, was found deceased after being reported missing during a visit to Barcelona. Authorities suggest that his death was likely accidental, according to a statement by Spanish regional police on Friday.
Gracey’s body was discovered on Thursday afternoon in the waters near a beach, close to where he was last seen with friends outside a Barcelona nightclub in the early hours of Tuesday morning.
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A representative from Catalonia’s regional police in Barcelona informed The Associated Press that preliminary indications suggest the University of Alabama student’s death was accidental, and an autopsy is scheduled to confirm this.
The 20-year-old was last seen around 3 a.m. on Tuesday outside the Shoko nightclub. He failed to return to the accommodation he shared with friends, his family in Elmhurst reported. Police have since retrieved his mobile phone.
As the eldest among five siblings, Gracey was remembered fondly by family. His brother, Tommy, shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, accompanied by several family photographs.
Gracey was an active hockey player and served as the chaplain of his fraternity, reflecting his commitment to both sports and community involvement.
On Friday morning, people in Elmhurst put red ribbons on trees near the Catholic grade school he attended.
In a statement, the Gracey family asked for prayers and privacy.
“Our family is heartbroken as we confirm that Jimmy’s body has been recovered in Barcelona. 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,” the statement said.
Barcelona is a popular tourist destination that draws millions of foreign visitors each year. It is generally safe, especially compared with major U.S. cities, where tourists’ biggest worry are normally pickpockets.
The city’s Mediterranean beaches, which are located within walking distance of the bustling city center, are a main draw especially for young visitors. The area where Gracey went out is a stretch of beach with several restaurants and nightclubs that are frequented by locals and tourists.
In an interview conducted before police confirmation of his death, Gracey’s aunt told the AP that he was “just a great kid, a good Catholic boy from the Midwest.”
The University of Alabama said in a statement that the school community “is heartbroken to learn of the death of Jimmy Gracey.”
“Jimmy’s loss is deeply felt across our campus. Our condolences are with the Gracey family during this devastating time,” it said.
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Naishadham reported from Madrid and O’Connor reported from Springfield, Illinois.
ABC7 Chicago contributed to this report.
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