University of Alabama Student James Gracey Reported Missing in Spain
An Illinois college student is currently unaccounted for in Spain, where he was visiting friends during his spring break, Us Weekly has reported.
James “Jimmy” Gracey is a junior at the University of Alabama and hails from Elmhurst, a suburb of Chicago.
The 20-year-old was in Barcelona spending time with friends who are studying abroad this semester.
According to his mother, Therese Marren Gracey, he reportedly did not return to his Airbnb following a night out.
Gracey was last seen by a friend around 3 a.m. on Tuesday, March 17, at Shôko, a famous beachfront nightclub in Barcelona, as stated by his family.
American EDM artist Daniel Allan was headlining a performance at the club on Monday, March 16.
His mother shared a poignant post on Facebook, noting that when his friends left the club that morning, Gracey chose to continue celebrating.
“My son is a University of Alabama student visiting friends in Barcelona who are studying abroad,” the post reads, which was shared in a Students in Barcelona 2026 Facebook group. “They went to Shoko last night. The police have his phone, but he didn’t make it back to the Airbnb. Has anyone seen him?”
Authorities have not disclosed how or where Gracey’s phone was located.
However, police in Catalonia have confirmed that they are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding Gracey’s disappearance.
The family’s statement indicates that Gracey is 6 feet 1 inch tall and weighs 175 pounds.
At the time he was last seen, he was wearing a white shirt, dark pants, and a chain featuring a gold rhinestone cross.
Anyone with information regarding his whereabouts is encouraged to contact (224) 505-3886.
Details regarding when Gracey originally arrived in Barcelona remain unclear.
The State Department has not yet responded to Us’ inquiry for comments.
A spokesperson for the University of Alabama informed NBC Chicago that they are aware of the situation and are in touch with his family.
Gracey announced in the fall that he has been elected as the chaplain of the Alpha Phi Chapter of the Theta Chi fraternity.
The New York Post reports that Shoko has been recognized as the seventh-best club in the world and the best nightclub in Barcelona for 2025, as awarded by Nightlife International. The club features award-winning cuisine on the seafront and aims to “redefine nightlife with exclusive experiences” in the city.
