An urgent investigation has been launched by the Mossos d’Esquadra following the disappearance of a 20-year-old American student in Barcelona. Jimmy Gracey, who was visiting the Catalan capital, was last seen in the early hours of Tuesday morning near the city’s popular beachfront.
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Mr Gracey, a student at the University of Alabama and originally from Chicago, was in Barcelona visiting friends who are studying abroad. The group was staying at an Airbnb rental on the central Ronda de Sant Pere.
His mother first raised the alarm, issuing a series of anxious pleas for information on Facebook from the United States. In her posts, she explained that her son had gone out with friends on Monday night to the Shôko Barcelona nightclub.
Last Seen in Barceloneta
According to reports first published by local outlet Tot Barcelona, Mr Gracey was last seen by a friend at approximately 3 AM on Tuesday. He was just outside the nightclub, which is situated on the bustling Passeig Marítim in the Barceloneta neighbourhood, adjacent to the Port Olímpic. He did not return to the Airbnb he was sharing with his friends, and no one has had contact with him since.
The Catalan police are leading the investigation. The family confirmed that the Mossos are in possession of Mr Gracey’s mobile phone; however, the circumstances of its recovery have not been made public. Currently, police have not released further details as they pursue their enquiries.
Mr Gracey is described as having dark, curly hair. When last seen, he was wearing a white t-shirt and dark trousers. His mother highlighted a distinctive piece of jewellery he always wears: a gold chain with a rhinoceros cross pendant.
Appeal for Information
The Barceloneta area is popular with tourists and locals alike, known for its beaches, restaurants, and nightlife. While generally vibrant, it has, unfortunately, not been immune to serious incidents. For instance, the area was recently in the news as the trial began for a fatal iron bar attack that occurred in the neighbourhood, serving as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance. The neighbourhood’s transport links, including the metro station which recently marked 50 years of service, make it highly accessible day and night.
Barcelona authorities, including the Ajuntament, frequently issue safety advice for visitors. Nationally, Spain’s National Missing Persons Centre (CNDES) coordinates such cases. For now, the investigation remains a local police matter as officers work to retrace Mr Gracey’s last known steps.
Friends and family are appealing for anyone who might have been in the area of Shôko or the Port Olímpic in the early hours of Tuesday and who may have seen Mr Gracey to contact the Mossos d’Esquadra immediately with any information.
