Body Of US College Student Missing In Spain Found, Police Say

Spanish officers pulled the body of James “Jimmy” Gracey, a University of Alabama student, from the waters off Barcelona on March 19, police said.

Police said they identified the remains as Gracey’s, according to CBS News. The body was taken to the Institute of Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences for an autopsy, the Spanish newspaper La VanGuardia reported. Detectives do not suspect foul play was involved in his death at this time.

The 20-year-old was on a spring break visiting friends on study aboard in Barcelona when he was reported missing, according to his mother. He was last seen at Shôko nightclub at 3 a.m. on March 17. Gisela Macedo, a journalist in Spain, claimed Gracey stayed after his friend decided to leave the establishment. (RELATED: Chuck Norris Reportedly Rushed to Hospital For Medical Emergency) 

Police in Barcelona had been searching for Gracey since early March 17. On March 18, his wallet was found floating in the water, prompting authorities to close off the Somorrostro Beach area for a search, La VanGuardia reported.

🕊️ Missing Alabama student Jimmy Gracey’s body has been found in the ocean off the beaches of Barcelona.

What we know: https://t.co/ebbC5iqGin pic.twitter.com/uyFx4PnUgA

— TMZ (@TMZ) March 19, 2026

Gracey’s family released a statement March 19, according to CBS News. “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 and prayers. We will share updates if and when we’re able,” the statement read. (RELATED: Video Shows Moment Missile Nearly Kills Journalist)

Gracey was a native of Elmhurst, Illinois, and part of the Theta Chi Fraternity at the University of Alabama. His father went to Barcelona to assist with the search.