Missing University of Alabama Student’s Death Likely Accidental Drowning

An autopsy on a 20-year-old University of Alabama student, who went missing in Barcelona during spring break, suggests her death was likely due to accidental drowning, according to a preliminary police report.

The student, James “Jimmy” Gracie, disappeared early last Tuesday, prompting a significant search effort by Catalan authorities. Her body was discovered floating in the Mediterranean Sea days later. Initial findings presented to a local judge showed no indications of foul play, although a final conclusion is expected later this week.

Originally from Elmhurst, Illinois, Gracie had been out at a popular nightclub in Barcelona’s Port Olympic area when she went missing.

According to a police spokesperson, Gracie’s cell phone was found with someone who had prior legal issues, but it was confirmed that this individual had no connection to Gracie. That person was charged with “unlawful possession of property belonging to another.”

Her wallet was also recovered intact in the water on Thursday. Gracie’s body was ultimately located Friday near the nightclub where she was last seen.

Security footage captured her walking alone toward a dock near the Chamber of Commerce Club shortly before she fell into the water. The preliminary autopsy indicated drowning as the cause of death, along with various injuries consistent with impacts against breakwater rocks.

As the investigation continues, a police spokesperson emphasized that they are treating this as a case of accidental death. They noted that Gracie’s wallet contained cash and credit cards, further reducing the likelihood of foul play. Additionally, the preliminary autopsy results did not reveal any injuries prior to her drowning.

Meanwhile, a Hungarian tourist reported a stolen gold necklace from the same area the night before Gracie’s disappearance.