Search Intensifies For Missing University Of Alabama Student In Barcelona

Spanish Police have found the wallet of missing University of Alabama student James "Jimmy" Gracey floating in the sea near the Somorrostro Beach, outside Barcelona, Spain. Authorities there have mounted a water search with helicopters and divers but as of this morning have found nothing.

Arora Portello, a Spanish resident with Tuscaloosa ties, tells Tuscaloosa Thread that the disappearance is getting strong Spanish media attention and that the 20-year-old's picture is being published in Spanish newspapers, on digital media and television newscasts nationwide.

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The search for Gracey has also drawn the attention of the U.S. State Department, which says they are in contact with Spanish authorities. The White House has also voiced its concern in a media statement:

"The Trump Administration has no greater priority than the safety and security of Americans, and the State Department stands ready to provide all consular assistance to Americans in need abroad. When Americans are missing abroad, we can help their families and friends to file missing persons reports and help them understand local procedures. Due to privacy and other considerations, we have nothing additional to add at this time."

The Illinois native was visiting Theta Chi Fraternity brothers in Barcelona during spring break when he disappeared in the early hours of Tuesday morning after leaving the "Shoko", a beachfront club. "That was the last time we’ve heard from him,” his fraternity brother, Cavin McLay, told news partner ABC3340.

Portello says Spanish authorities are attempting to piece together security camera footage from the bar he was visiting, nearby businesses and police street cameras in an effort to track Gracey after he left the club with an unknown person.

Spanish police reportedly found the UA junior's cell phone, but Spanish media have not independently confirmed that.

Fraternity brothers, family and friends are in Barcelona conducting their own search as well as passing out flyers to get the story of his disappearance in front of as many people as possible.

The family has issued a public statement:

"Our family is deeply concerned about James “Jimmy” Gracey, who has been missing in Barcelona since the early morning hours of March 17. Jimmy is a 20-year-old University of Alabama student visiting friends abroad during spring break. He was last seen around 3:00 AM CET at the Shoko nightclub in the Port Olímpic area. He was wearing a white T-shirt, dark pants (likely joggers), and a gold chain with a rhinestone cross. He is approximately 6’1” and 175 pounds. We are asking anyone who may have seen Jimmy or has any information—no matter how small—to please contact 224.505.3886. 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. We are working closely with local authorities and are incredibly grateful for the support we have received. We ask that you keep Jimmy in your thoughts as we continue to do everything we can to bring him home safely. Thank you." — The Gracey Family

The family says the disappearance is totally out of character for Gracey.