James “Jimmy” Gracey, a 20-year-old University of Alabama junior from Elmhurst, Illinois, went missing in Barcelona, Spain, during spring break after a night out. He was last seen around 3 a.m. on March 17, 2026, outside Shôko Barcelona nightclub on Barceloneta Beach.
Last Known Details
Gracey was visiting friends studying abroad when he separated from his group at the club in the Port Olímpic area. His friend left while he stayed; he never returned to their Airbnb. He’s described as 6’1″, 175 pounds, wearing a white T-shirt, dark pants (likely joggers), and a gold chain with a rhinestone cross.
Investigation Status
Catalan police (Mossos d’Esquadra) confirmed an open probe after a 1 a.m. report on March 17. Authorities recovered his stolen phone during another arrest, but no further leads are public as of March 19. His family, including his father now in Barcelona, urges tips to (224) 505-3886; UA is supporting them.
Family and Community Appeal
As the eldest of five and Theta Chi fraternity chaplain, Gracey is called kind and responsible—out of character for vanishing without contact. His scheduled U.S. flight was for March 22; schools like Saint Ignatius are praying for his safe return.
