CHICAGO (WLS) — James “Jimmy” Gracey, a 20-year-old Elmhurst native, has been found dead after going missing overseas.

Gracey was visiting friends in Spain for spring break, his family said.

He was last seen on Tuesday outside of Shoko, a club in Villa Olimpica area on the Barceloneta Beach, in an area popular with tourists, according to his family.

“Jimmy” was a junior at the University of Alabama and a graduate of Saint Ignatius College Prep in Chicago.

Key Headlines

2:56 AM +07
Catalan police say James Gracey has been found dead in waters off Barcelona beach

Here’s how the news is developing.

Mar 19, 2026, 10:55 PM

Chicago-area native college student James Gracey missing

James Gracey, 20, was last seen on Tuesday at a club in Barcelona.

He was last seen outside of Shoko, a club in Villa Olimpica area on the Barceloneta Beach, in an area popular with tourists, according to his family.

The Gracey family is asking for help to find out what happened to him. Anyone with information is urged to contact (224) 505-3886.

WLS logo

2 hours and 15 minutes ago

St. Ignatius College Prep plans Memorial Mass for James Gracey

St. Ignatius College Prep in Chicago is planning a Memorial Mass for former student James Gracey after he was found dead in Spain.

“We have invited all current parents and students to join us for Memorial Mass to pray for Jimmy’s eternal rest on Monday at 8 a.m. at Church of the Holy Family,” a statement from St. Ignatius College Prep read. “The news of his death allows us to offer a requiem Mass even though it is a Lenten weekday when Masses for the Dead are typically not allowed.”

The Mass will not be open to the public.

WLS logo

3 hours and 57 minutes ago

Theta Chi Fraternity releases statements on death of member James Gracey

Theta Chi Fraternity has released the following statements on the death of University of Alabama chapter member James “Jimmy” Gracey in Barcelona, Spain:
“Theta Chi International Fraternity and the Alpha Phi Chapter at the University of Alabama together mourn the passing of their brother, James “Jimmy” Gracey, whose body was recovered today after a multi-day search in Barcelona, Spain.”

Statement from Mike Mayer, CEO of Theta Chi International Fraternity:
“It is with profound grief that Theta Chi International Fraternity mourns the passing of our brother James ‘Jimmy’ Gracey, a beloved member of our Alpha Phi Chapter at the University of Alabama.

“Jimmy served his chapter as both Chaplain and as a Philanthropy Chairman. These roles reflected who he was at his core: a young man of deep faith, genuine care for others, and an abiding commitment to his brothers and his community. He was exactly the kind of man Theta Chi aspires to build – a Resolute Man.

“Driven by true devotion and fraternal love, his Theta Chi brothers in Barcelona searched tirelessly for Jimmy for several days. We are deeply proud of them, and we recognize what they have experienced, along with so many across our brotherhood, has been profoundly traumatic. We respectfully implore local, national, and international media to give these young men the space they need to process and grieve this unthinkable loss. We remind all collegiate brothers of Theta Chi the mental health resources the fraternity provides, and we strongly encourage anyone who is struggling with this news to utilize them.

“We are heartbroken for Jimmy’s family and ask all who loved him to join us in praying for them – not just in the days ahead, but long after the headlines have faded.

“In the coming days, Theta Chi will announce ways to honor Jimmy’s life and legacy. Now and always, he remains in our hearts and a cherished part of our eternal brotherhood.”

Statement from Cavin McLay, President, Alpha Phi Chapter, University of Alabama:
“There are no words to describe the pain of losing our beloved brother, Jimmy. He was a man of profound faith who walked with Christ in all facets of his life, and he inspired every one of us to do the same. As our Chapter Chaplain, Jimmy closed every chapter meeting in prayer, bringing us together in a way that reflected exactly who he was and how deeply he was loved and respected.

“Jimmy always went out of his way for anyone who needed him, whether that was guidance in their faith, a shoulder to lean on, or simply someone to share a smile and laugh with. He was always asking how your day was going and was always thinking about the people around him. His smile and attitude were infectious and such a light in our Chapter.

“I can say without hesitation that I am a better person for having known him. He was a role model, a warrior of Christ, and the kind of man every one of us should aspire to be. His faith inspires us to live a life sharing the love of the Lord, and his impact on this Chapter and every individual within it is too great to fully convey. We were all blessed to have him in our lives.

“To say Jimmy will be deeply missed would be an understatement. I am so grateful for the support around the world this chapter is receiving in these difficult times. We find comfort in the wisdom of John 16:22: ‘Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again, and you will rejoice.'”

WLS logo

5:55 AM +07

University of Alabama releases statement on death of student James Gracey

The University of Alabama released the following statement on the death of James Gracey:

“The University of Alabama 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. We ask that their privacy be respected as they grieve. The University has been in close contact with the family throughout the week and will continue to provide support to them and to Jimmy’s friends, classmates, and all members of our community who are affected by this tragedy. Counseling and support resources are available to students by calling UAPD at 205-348-5454, and to other members of the UA community via the Employee Assistance Program at 888-283-3515.”

WLS logo

5:15 AM +07

James Gracey’s family releases statement after missing college student found dead

James Gracey’s family has released a statement after the missing college student was found dead in Spain:

“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.

“We are profoundly grateful for the outpouring of love, support, and prayers from people around the world – so many helped to share Jimmy’s story and bring his life to light so that others may know him.

“We also sincerely appreciate the continued support and coordination of the local authorities and the U.S. Consulate as we work to better understand the circumstances surrounding this tragedy.

“As we navigate this painful time, we kindly ask for privacy so that we may grieve together and begin to process his loss as a family.”