The family of James “Jimmy” Gracey, a 20-year-aged college student from Elmhurst, Illinois, is pleading for help as authorities in Barcelona, Spain, continue their search. Gracey, a junior at the University of Alabama, was last seen early Tuesday morning at the Shôko nightclub in the city’s Olympic Port area while on spring break with friends. The disappearance of the young man has sparked concern among family and friends, and a growing public effort to aid in the search for the missing student.
Beth Marren O’Reilly, Gracey’s aunt, shared her anguish and hope in a statement to CBS News Chicago. “He’s a great considerable brother, he’s a great son, he’s a great nephew, he’s just very beloved,” O’Reilly said. “He’s a very responsible kid, which is why we’re very worried. This is pretty out of character for him not to be in touch with friends and family.” The family’s worry stems from Gracey’s typically reliable communication, making his silence particularly alarming. The search for James Gracey is ongoing, and authorities are appealing to anyone with information to approach forward.
Last Known Movements and Police Investigation
According to reports, Gracey was with a group of friends visiting Barcelona for spring break when he went missing after leaving Shôko nightclub around 3 or 4 a.m. On Tuesday, March 17, 2026, NBC Chicago reported. His mother, Therese Marren Gracey, posted a plea for help on Facebook, stating that police have his phone but he did not return to the Airbnb where he was staying. Catalonia Police confirmed they received a report of a possible disappearance early Tuesday morning, around 1:00 AM, and have opened an investigation.
Spanish newspaper El Periódico reported that police believe Gracey did not leave the club alone, and the case doesn’t appear to be a “normal” disappearance. CBS News detailed that Shôko Nightclub has provided security footage from the night of Gracey’s disappearance to local law enforcement. Authorities have deployed helicopters and marine units to search the area around the Olympic village, according to local news reports.
Description and Family Appeal
James “Jimmy” Gracey is described as 6 feet 1 inch tall and approximately 175 pounds. He was last seen wearing a white T-shirt, dark pants likely joggers, and a gold chain with a rhinestone cross. The Gracey family emphasized that his disappearance is out of character, stating, “Jimmy is a kind, responsible, and devoted son and brother.”
The family has requested privacy during this challenging time but continues to share updates through verified channels. O’Reilly expressed the family’s deep concern, highlighting Gracey’s responsible nature and consistent communication with loved ones. The ongoing search for James Gracey underscores the vulnerability of travelers and the importance of international cooperation in missing persons cases.
What We Know About James Gracey
- Age: 20 years old
- Hometown: Elmhurst, Illinois
- University: University of Alabama (junior)
- High School: Saint Ignatius College Prep (Chicago)
- Last Seen: Shôko nightclub, Barcelona, Spain, early Tuesday, March 17, 2026
- Clothing: White T-shirt, dark joggers, gold chain with a rhinestone cross
Ongoing Search Efforts and How to Help
Local authorities in Barcelona are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding James Gracey’s disappearance. The investigation includes reviewing security footage, interviewing witnesses, and conducting searches of the surrounding area. The family is working with the U.S. State Department and local authorities to coordinate search efforts and gather information.
As of March 19, 2026, there have been no confirmed sightings of Gracey. Anyone with information regarding his whereabouts is urged to contact local authorities in Barcelona or the U.S. State Department. The family has requested that anyone who may have been at Shôko nightclub on the night of March 16-17, 2026, and may have seen Gracey, come forward with any information, no matter how small it may seem. The focus remains on locating James Gracey and bringing him home safely.
The next update from authorities is expected within 24-48 hours as they continue to analyze security footage and pursue leads. The Gracey family appreciates the outpouring of support from the community and asks for continued prayers and assistance in sharing information about James’s disappearance.
If you have any information about the disappearance of James “Jimmy” Gracey, please contact the Barcelona police or the nearest U.S. Consulate. Share this article to help spread awareness and aid in the search.
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