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The initial findings from an autopsy on a 20-year-old University of Alabama student suggest that his death was due to accidental drowning. The student had vanished during a spring break trip to Barcelona, and local authorities have shared their preliminary conclusions.
James “Jimmy” Gracey was discovered in the Mediterranean Sea several days after disappearing in the early hours of last Tuesday. His sudden absence prompted an intense search by the Catalan police. According to a report submitted to a local judge, there were no indications of foul play. However, the complete findings are expected to be released on Thursday, as reported by the Spanish newspaper El Periódico.
Gracey, originally from Elmhurst, Illinois, had been enjoying a night out with friends at a renowned nightclub situated in Barcelona’s Port OlÃmpic district, a vibrant area adjacent to the sea.
A spokesperson for the police informed Fox News that Gracey’s phone was discovered in the possession of an individual known to the authorities due to previous offenses. After investigation, it was determined that this person had not interacted with Gracey and was charged with “illegal possession of another person’s belongings” instead.
University of Alabama student Jimmy Gracey, aged 20, was tragically found deceased in Spanish waters after being reported missing on Tuesday. (James Breeden for Fox News Digital, Gracey family)
On Thursday, Gracey’s wallet was found floating in the water. Police finally recovered Gracey’s body from the water near the nightclub where he had been on Friday afternoon.
Gracey, 20, was last seen at the Shoko nightclub in Barcelona, Spain, on March 17 during a trip overseas to visit friends during spring break. (Pau Venteo/Europa Press via Getty Images)
According to the newspaper, security camera footage shows Gracey walking by himself onto a dock near the Shoko club and falling in the water.Â
The preliminary autopsy report points to drowning as the cause of death with multiple injuries to the body consistent with repeated hitting against breakwater rocks, possibly during a swell.
Mossos d’Esquadra’s first line of investigation is reportedly accidental death. (James Breeden for Fox News Digital)
The police spokesman told Fox News that the investigation is ongoing and that their first line of investigation is accidental death. He noted that Gracey’s wallet was found intact with money, credit cards and documents, which lessen the likelihood of foul play.. They also confirmed the preliminary autopsy report did not indicate Jimmy suffered injuries prior to drowning.Â
Fox News is still waiting on confirmation of Spanish media claims and on whether Gracey’s body was found with his gold chain and rhinestone cross.Â
A Hungarian tourist reported being robbed of her gold necklace in the same area where Jimmy was last seen alive the night before the American student went missing.