Police believe that missing college student James “Jimmy” Gracey likely died in a water-related accident earlier this week in Barcelona, Spain, according to a spokesperson who spoke with PEOPLE.
Authorities say all available evidence suggests his death was accidental. Surveillance footage reportedly shows the 20-year-old University of Alabama student walking alone toward the docks before falling into the water. However, officials have not been able to determine the exact location where he entered the water.
Gracey’s body was recovered from the sea near Somorrostro Beach on Thursday, March 19, several days after he had been reported missing.
His family said he had been in Barcelona with friends for spring break and visited the beachfront Shôko nightclub on Monday, March 16. He was last seen early the following morning after parting ways with a friend.
The case is still under investigation, and an autopsy has yet to be completed.
In a statement, Gracey’s family expressed their grief, describing him as a deeply loved son, grandson, brother, nephew, cousin, and friend. They asked for privacy as they cope with the loss and begin the grieving process.
His fraternity, Theta Chi, also paid tribute to him, remembering him as a compassionate young man with strong faith and a deep commitment to those around him.
