James "Jimmy" Gracey, a 20-year-old University of Alabama student from Elmhurst, Illinois, vanished during a spring break trip in Barcelona, Spain, on March 17, 2026.
Background
Gracey was visiting friends who are studying abroad in Spain while on a personal trip. According to his mother, Therese Gracey, he went to the Shôko restaurant and nightclub in Barcelona's Port Olímpic area with friends, but they became separated at the end of the night.
"He was with friends, but they got separated at the end of the night," his mother posted on Facebook. "They're all out looking for him."
A friend last saw Gracey at approximately 3 a.m. local time. When he failed to return to his short-term rental property at Ronda de Sant Pere, his family reported him missing to local authorities.
The Investigation
Catalonia police confirmed they are conducting initial checks and have opened an investigation into Gracey's disappearance.
"A call was received early yesterday morning, around 1:00 AM, reporting a possible disappearance," Catalonia police told NBC 5 Chicago. "The disappearance was reported to have occurred on March 17, 2026, at 3:00 AM, in the Port Olímpic area."
Authorities have recovered Gracey's phone, but he did not make it back to his Airbnb. The investigation remains ongoing as search efforts continue in the Barcelona area.
Key Takeaways
- James "Jimmy" Gracey is a 20-year-old University of Alabama student from Elmhurst, Illinois
- He was last seen around 3 a.m. on March 17 at the Port Olímpic area in Barcelona
- Gracey stands approximately 6 feet, 1 inch tall and weighs around 175 pounds
- He was last seen wearing dark pants, a white t-shirt, and a chain with a gold rhinestone cross
- He was visiting friends who study abroad in Spain
- Catalan police have recovered his phone but he never returned to his rental
- Anyone with information is urged to contact 224-505-3886
What's Next
Catalonia police continue their investigation into Gracey's disappearance. Friends who were with him in Barcelona are assisting authorities with their inquiries. The family is working with local law enforcement as the search enters its second day. This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
Anyone with information regarding James Gracey's whereabouts is urged to contact the provided phone number or local authorities in Barcelona.