Missing College Student from Illinois Sparked Widespread Search in Spain

Thu Mar 19 2026 20:23:55 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

James 'Jimmy' Gracey, a 20-year-old University of Alabama student, has been reported missing after a night out in Barcelona. Family and authorities are concerned as searches intensify.

James 'Jimmy' Gracey, a 20-year-old college student from Illinois, went missing in Barcelona after separating from friends during a night out. His family is actively working with local authorities, and searches are ongoing. The University of Alabama has pledged support and assistance in the search effort.

CHICAGO (AP) — Police in Spain searched Thursday for a college student from Illinois reported missing this week after a night out with friends.

Family members said James “Jimmy” Gracey, a 20-year-old student at the University of Alabama, was visiting friends studying abroad in Barcelona. He was last seen at a nightclub around 3 a.m. on Tuesday, but separated from his group and did not return to his rented room.

Regional Catalan police launched a search operation, involving air patrols and underwater sweeps, as they worked to locate Gracey. His family expressed deep concern and described him as a responsible son and brother, highlighting that it was out of character for him not to check in. They have been in close contact with local authorities and are grateful for the support received.

Friends in the city have started posting missing person signs with Gracey’s photo and details of his last sighting. The University of Alabama also released a statement expressing their support, encouraging anyone with information to contact the local authorities.

Gracey is said to be a member of the Theta Chi fraternity, holding two positions in his school chapter. The fraternity’s CEO, Michael Mayer, noted they are keeping in touch with lawmakers and chapter members in Barcelona, stressing their commitment to finding him.