A witness is allegedly providing clues about what may have caused the death of James "Jimmy" Gracey, He was a student at the University of Alabama who journeyed to Spain during spring break with some friends. After going missing in the wee hours of Tuesday, March 17, an extensive and urgent search was launched. Sadly, Gracey's body was found in the water on Thursday, March 19, in Port Olimpic.
Videos by Wide Open Country
Per the New York Post, Gracey allegedly "walked toward the rocks after leaving the beachfront nightclub where he was last seen, a witness has claimed." This witness supposedly said that the now-deceased student was heading toward a "rocky outcrop" close to the beach, according to the Daily Mail.
Gracey, 20, had been at Shoko, a popular nightclub. He was last seen there on Tuesday evening at 3 a.m. For some reason, he got separated from his pals. Gracey did not go back to the nearby Airbnb he stayed at, which also triggered worry for his safety.
Video Also Gives Information About Gracey's Whereabouts
Per WBRC, "Barcelona police investigators say surveillance video shows Gracey falling into the sea...." That video, plus other information that has been gathered, is bolstering the theory that Jimmy Gracey's death was allegedly accidental. That was reported by a Spanish publication, El Periodico de Catalunya.
His Grieving Family Issued a Statement
For all those who knew and cared about Jimmy Gracey, this has been a profound, shocking, terrible loss. Jimmy Gracey's family communicated that in a statement they released after his death was announced.
Per People, it said in part, "Our family is heartbroken as we confirm that Jimmy's body has been recovered in Barcelona. Jimmy was a deeply loved son, grandson, brother, nephew, cousin, and friend, and our family is struggling to come to terms with this unimaginable loss. We are profoundly grateful for the outpouring of love, support, and prayers from people around the world - so many helped to share Jimmy's story and bring his life to light so that others may know him."
The statement mentioned that they "sincerely appreciate the continued support and coordination of the local authorities and the U.S. Consulate as we work to better understand the circumstances surrounding this tragedy."
The University of Alabama Also Issued a Statement
Understandably, the passing of one of their own has been truly shattering to the entire University of Alabama campus.
Per Instagram, the school sorrowfully noted Jimmy Gracey's loss. The statement said in part, "The University of Alabama community is heartbroken to learn of the death of Jimmy Gracey. Jimmy's loss is deeply felt across our campus. Our condolences are with the Gracey family during this devastating time. We ask that their privacy be respected as they grieve. The University has been in close contact with the family throughout the week and will continue to provide support to them and to Jimmy's friends, classmates, and all members of our community who are affected by this tragedy."
