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University Student Found Dead in Barcelona After Spring Break

3/21/2026

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Summary

Story summary

James 'Jimmy' Gracey, a 20-year-old University of Alabama student, was found dead in Barcelona after going missing during a spring break trip.
He was last seen around 3 a.m. on March 17 near the Shoko nightclub.
His body was recovered near Somorrostro Beach.
Authorities believe the death was accidental, citing security footage of him walking toward the water.
Gracey’s family expressed heartbreak and gratitude, with an autopsy pending.

History

Historical Context

The tragic deaths of American students James 'Jimmy' Gracey in 2019 and Jack O'Connor in 2015 in Barcelona highlight the risks young travelers face in nightlife areas. As tourism surged from 1.7 million visitors in 1990 to 32 million in 2017, safety concerns grew, prompting calls for better measures to protect tourists in this popular yet challenging destination.

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Story summary

James 'Jimmy' Gracey, a 20-year-old University of Alabama student, was found dead in Barcelona after going missing during a spring break trip.
He was last seen around 3 a.m. on March 17 near the Shoko nightclub.
His body was recovered near Somorrostro Beach.
Authorities believe the death was accidental, citing security footage of him walking toward the water.
Gracey’s family expressed heartbreak and gratitude, with an autopsy pending.

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