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March 19, 2026
Search for missing Illinois college student James Gracey in Barcelona partially focused on the sea
Updated on: March 19, 2026 / 9:39 AM CDT / CBS Chicago
TL;DR
- James Gracey, a 20-year-old University of Alabama student from Elmhurst, Illinois, disappeared in Barcelona, Spain.
- The search efforts are partially focused on the sea, with boats, divers, and drones being utilized.
- Gracey was last seen early Tuesday morning after visiting Shoko Barcelona, a club near Barceloneta Beach.
- His wallet was reportedly found floating in the sea, according to Spanish newspapers.
- Police are reviewing security video from the club and are considering foul play as a possibility.
- Gracey's family describes him as kind, responsible, and devoted, stating his disappearance is out of character.
- The U.S. State Department and Illinois Sen. Dick Durbin are assisting the family.