CHICAGO (AP) — Police in Spain continue their search for James Jimmy Gracey, a college student from Illinois, who was reported missing following a night out with friends in Barcelona.
The 20-year-old, studying at the University of Alabama, was visiting friends studying abroad when he was last seen around 3 a.m. on Tuesday at a nightclub in Barcelona. According to his family, he did not return to his accommodation.
Gracey's family, residing in Elmhurst, Illinois, expressed their concern, stating, Jimmy is a kind, responsible, and devoted son and brother... It is completely out of character for him not to check in with family and friends. They are collaborating closely with local authorities during this troubling time.
The Catalan police are conducting extensive search operations that include aerial patrols and underwater searches near the Barceloneta Beach. A social media post from the family indicated he was last seen outside Shoko nightclub, dressed in a white shirt and dark pants with a distinctive chain featuring a gold rhinestone cross.
As part of the outreach efforts, friends remaining in the area have begun distributing missing person signs displaying Gracey’s image along with the details of his last confirmed sighting.
The University of Alabama has voiced its support for Gracey’s family, stating, We are keeping Jimmy and his family at the forefront of our thoughts... Anyone with information that may help is encouraged to contact local authorities. Gracey is also a member of the Theta Chi fraternity’s chapter at the university, where he holds two designated positions.
In the wake of his disappearance, the fraternity's leadership has been in regular communication with the family and local lawmakers, as well as with chapter members currently in Barcelona who are searching for Gracey.
