Family And UA Community Mourn Loss Of UA Student In Spain

The worst possible outcome in the disappearance of University of Alabama student James "Jimmy" Gracey in Spain is eliciting reaction on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean this evening.

The 20-year-old's body was found in the water in the Somorrostro beach area, not far from the nightclub where he went missing on Tuesday, Catalan police confirmed early this afternoon.

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The UA junior's parents, who are in Spain, and family released a statement this afternoon after Catalan Police confirmed the search by helicopter, drone and police divers had recovered Gracey's body

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.

The UA Theta Chi Fraternity member and chaplain was in Barcelona over spring break to visit fraternity brothers studying abroad. In the early hours of Tuesday morning, Gracy and his friends separated at a nightclub. Security cameras revealed that he left the Shoko Club around 3:00 am, apparently with an unknown person.

NewsNation is reporting that an arrest has been made in connection with Jimmy's phone. An individual has reportedly been charged with using the phone for extortion. Basically, they stole the phone and were reportedly extorting the family to try and get money back,

Alabama Junior U.S. Senator Katie Britt posted on X (formerly Twitter) that she is devastated by the news:

Wesley and I are devastated to hear this news. Please join us in praying for Jimmy’s loved ones, classmates, and the entire University of Alabama community.

The fraternity's national CEO, Michael Mayer, issued a statement saying the fraternity is grieved by the tragic outcome.

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.

Cavin McLay, President, Alpha Phi Chapter, University of Alabama, issued a response to his fraternity brother's death:

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. 

The UA Interfraternity Council issued their deepest condolences to Jimmy’s family, his brothers in Theta Chi, and all who knew and loved him."His memory will remain a lasting part of our community," they wrote.

The University of Alabama leadership had been in contact with the family since shortly after word of their student's disappearance became known. Today, they issued their reaction to the terrible outcome:

The University of Alabama community is heartbroken to learn of the death of Jimmy Gracey. Jimmy's loss is deeply felt across out 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.

The UA message continued announcing that 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.

Spanish authorities are now seeking a cause of death. An autopsy will be performed as part of the investigation.