Additional Coverage:
- Jimmy Gracey’s wallet found intact, but drugging not ruled out in death of Alabama student in Barcelona (foxnews.com)
Investigation Continues into Alabama Student’s Spring Break Death in Barcelona
BARCELONA, Spain – Authorities in Barcelona are continuing their investigation into the spring break death of University of Alabama student Jimmy Gracey, 20, whose body was recovered off the coast of Spain. While initial beliefs point to an accidental drowning, law enforcement sources indicate that the possibility of Gracey being drugged has not been entirely ruled out.
Gracey, a junior, was in Barcelona with friends from his Theta Chi fraternity chapter, visiting fellow students studying abroad. He was last seen alive early Tuesday morning at Shoko, a nightclub located near the Port Olimpic marina, where his remains were discovered on Thursday evening.
Investigators currently believe Gracey may have walked into the water on his own while under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or both. However, a definitive cause of death awaits the completion of autopsy and toxicology reports, which are not expected until next Thursday. There were no immediate reports of external trauma.
Adding a layer of complexity to the case, Gracey’s wallet was found intact, containing cash, credit cards, and identification. This detail has led authorities to question the extent of any potential criminal involvement.
Furthermore, a man with a history of theft was arrested in connection with Gracey’s recovered phone. However, law enforcement sources clarify that this individual is not believed to have taken the phone directly from Gracey.
Instead, it’s thought he found the phone on a street, leading to his subsequent arrest. Investigators currently believe he had no direct contact with Gracey.
Surveillance video is still being reviewed, and several “loose ends” remain before the case can be officially closed. Active hypotheses include Gracey being drugged, self-administering drugs, or consuming enough alcohol to cause disorientation.
Catalan regional police, Mossos d’Esquadra, previously stated they believe Gracey’s death was accidental but refrained from releasing specific details about his final moments.
Gracey’s disappearance gained international attention after his mother, Therese Gracey, posted about it in a Facebook group for Barcelona expats, and his father, Taras Gracey, traveled to Spain to assist in the search. Dive teams were deployed along the Mediterranean beach on Thursday, ultimately leading to the recovery of Gracey’s remains around 7:15 p.m.
Back in Tuscaloosa, Gracey’s girlfriend, Kenna Cole, shared a poignant tribute on TikTok, writing, “Fly high my angel,” and expressing her gratitude for having been loved by him.