University of Alabama student James “Jimmy” Gracey died by drowning after falling into the sea near a nightclub in Barcelona, according to an autopsy report cited by Spanish outlet El Periódico de Catalunya. The report said his death was ruled accidental and police do not plan to pursue criminal charges.
Gracey, 20, disappeared on March 17 after a night out at Shôko nightclub, a popular beachfront venue. He had traveled to Barcelona for spring break and was staying in an Airbnb about two miles from the club with friends. When he did not return, the friends who had been with him were the first to raise the alarm.
Investigators say Gracey became separated from his group and was last seen walking alone toward a rocky stretch of coastline near the club. Two days later, on March 19, authorities recovered his body from the sea near the Somorrostro area.
The autopsy report reportedly described bruises consistent with repeatedly striking rocks over a period of time, suggesting he may have been pushed by waves or tides after entering the water. Officials have not released a full public report, but the outlet said the injuries were consistent with the circumstances of a fall and prolonged contact with the shoreline.
Before the autopsy conclusion was reported, police had explored multiple theories — including whether Gracey could have been drugged before he went into the water. That possibility has not been confirmed, and toxicology testing is still pending. The toxicology report is expected to show whether drugs were present in his system at the time of death.
Other details from the investigation have drawn attention during the weeks-long search. Gracey’s wallet was found near the shoreline. His phone, meanwhile, was discovered in the possession of a man who allegedly picked it up from a sidewalk and kept it. Police reportedly do not believe that person had direct contact with Gracey and have not linked him to the student’s final movements.
As the case moves from search to mourning, grief has poured in from both family and friends in Alabama. Gracey served as chaplain of the Alpha Phi Chapter of the Theta Chi fraternity, where members described him as deeply grounded in faith and always checking in on others.
In a statement, his family said Jimmy was “a deeply loved son, grandson, brother, nephew, cousin, and friend,” adding they are struggling to process the loss. His younger brother Tommy also posted a heartbreaking tribute, writing that he would miss their texts and calls about hockey, school, and everyday life. “I’m not ready to say goodbye,” he wrote, adding that he would do anything for “one more conversation.”
While the autopsy cited by Spanish media has reportedly confirmed drowning as the cause of death, the toxicology report remains the final piece of medical evidence still outstanding. For those who loved him, the results may offer clarity — but they cannot undo the heartbreak of losing a 20-year-old with his whole life ahead of him.
