Police: Death of University of Alabama student in Spain likely an accident

This undated photo shows James “Jimmy” Gracey. (Gracey Family via AP)

University of Alabama student James “Jimmy” Gracey died off the coast of Spain in what police are saying was likely an accident.

Gracey, who was from Elmhurst, Illinois, was found dead after going missing while in Barcelona visiting friends studying abroad for spring break.

Gracey’s body was found yesterday afternoon in the waters off a beach, near where he was last seen outside a Barcelona nightclub with his friends in the early hours of Tuesday.

A spokesperson for Catalonia’s regional police in Barcelona told The Associated Press that “all signs point” to his death being accidental, and that an autopsy would take place.

Gracey, 20, was last seen outside the Shoko nightclub around 3AM on Tuesday. He never returned to the room he was renting with friends, according to family members. Police later recovered his phone.

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.

(Copyright 2026 The Associated Press contributed to this report. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)