An autopsy has revealed that the death of University of Alabama student James 'Jimmy' Gracey in Barcelona was likely accidental, according to Spanish media reports. The 20-year-old, who went missing while on spring break, was found dead in the sea off a beach near the Shoko nightclub, where he was last seen at around 3am on Tuesday.
Police in Barcelona told the Associated Press that 'all signs point' to the death being inadvertent. Surveillance cameras captured Gracey walking alone towards a dock and falling into the water without third-party involvement, according to El País. A preliminary autopsy report, cited by El Periódico, rules out foul play and supports the hypothesis that he accidentally fell into the sea and drowned.
The autopsy documented injuries consistent with repeatedly hitting the rocks of a breakwater, El Periódico reported. Toxicology test results are pending. Police found Gracey's mobile phone in the possession of a known thief, but investigators ruled out any connection to his death. His wallet and some clothes were also found, helping to narrow the search.
Gracey's parents have travelled to Barcelona, and his body will be released for repatriation after toxicology tests are completed. In a statement, his family asked for prayers and privacy, describing him as 'a deeply loved son, grandson, brother, nephew, cousin and friend'. The University of Alabama expressed its condolences, saying the community was 'heartbroken' by the loss.
