BARCELONA, Spain — A 20-year-old University of Alabama student who was enjoying spring break with friends in Spain died in a tragic accidental drowning after slipping off a rocky cliff into the sea, authorities confirmed Friday.

James “Jimmy” Gracey, a junior from Elmhurst, Illinois, was alone when he fell to his death, according to CCTV footage reviewed by police. The incident occurred in the early hours of Wednesday morning near Port Olímpic, one of Barcelona’s popular waterfront areas known for its vibrant nightlife and scenic coastal paths.

Gracey had been last seen leaving the fashionable Shôko nightclub around 3 a.m. Tuesday night. Video surveillance captured him walking alone across the beach and toward a rocky outcrop before he lost his footing and plunged into the water. Barcelona police announced there was no evidence of foul play, describing the death as a heartbreaking accident.

A massive search operation involving deep-sea divers was launched immediately after Gracey was reported missing. His body was recovered Thursday in approximately 13 feet of water off Port Olímpic. An autopsy is still pending and results could take several weeks, officials said.

Gracey’s friends and family have been left devastated by the sudden loss of a young man remembered for his deep faith, selfless spirit, and genuine care for others.

His grieving girlfriend, Kenna Cohen, shared an emotional tribute on TikTok, writing: “I am forever in debt for having been lucky enough to be loved by the most pure-hearted, sweet, devoted and selfless soul.”

At the University of Alabama, Gracey served as chaplain of the Alpha Phi Chapter of the Theta Chi Fraternity. In statements released Friday, fraternity leaders expressed profound sorrow.

“There are no words to describe the pain of losing our beloved brother, Jimmy,” said Cavin McLay, president of the Theta Chi Alpha Phi Chapter.

Mike Mayer, CEO of Theta Chi Fraternity, added that Gracey was “a young man of deep faith” who showed “a genuine care for others.”

The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the University of Alabama community and Gracey’s hometown in Illinois, where he was known simply as “Jimmy” — a devoted student, loyal friend, and spiritual leader among his fraternity brothers. Friends described the trip to Barcelona as a chance to relax and reconnect during spring break; instead, it ended in unimaginable heartbreak.

Authorities continue to urge caution in coastal areas at night, especially near rocky cliffs and after leaving nightlife venues. While the full details of the autopsy are still forthcoming, police have stressed that every indication points to a tragic slip rather than any criminal act.

The loss of such a promising young life serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly an evening of celebration can turn into irreversible tragedy. James Gracey’s faith, kindness, and devotion will be remembered long after the waves have settled at Port Olímpic.