CHICAGO (WLS) -- James "Jimmy" Gracey, a 20-year-old Elmhurst native, has been found dead after going missing overseas.
Gracey was visiting friends in Spain for spring break, his family said.
He was last seen on Tuesday outside of Shoko, a club in Villa Olimpica area on the Barceloneta Beach, in an area popular with tourists, according to his family.
"Jimmy" was a junior at the University of Alabama and a graduate of Saint Ignatius College Prep in Chicago.
James Gracey, 20, was last seen on Tuesday at a club in Barcelona.
He was last seen outside of Shoko, a club in Villa Olimpica area on the Barceloneta Beach, in an area popular with tourists, according to his family.
The Gracey family is asking for help to find out what happened to him. Anyone with information is urged to contact (224) 505-3886.
The Gracey family issued a statement on Thursday.
"We are so grateful for the kindness and concern that has been shown for our family during this incredibly difficult time.
"We have made the decision to pause media interviews at this time to focus on being together and caring for one another.
"Thank you for respecting our privacy and holding our family in your thoughts and prayers. We will share updates if and when we're able."
Mossos police said in a social media post in Catalan that a body was found in the area of Somorrostro beach in Barcelona.
Officials were working to confirm the identity of the body.
Police did not say this was related to the Gracey case.
The body was found at about 6 p.m. local time, police said.
Cavin McLay, a fellow University of Alabama student and friend of James Gracey issued a statement on Thursday.
McLay was not with Jimmy's travel group when he went missing.
"Jimmy is a beloved brother and a man of upstanding character. He serves as a mentor to younger classes in our chapter and guides our brothers on their journey with their Faith as our Chaplain.
He also serves as one of our Philanthropy Chairman and devotes his time to giving back to others. He's the guy that goes out of his way to be there when someone needs it.
We're working closely with and appreciate the support from Senator Britts office, the State Department, the US Embassy here in Barcelona, the UA administration and student body, Theta Chi IHQ, local authorities, and everyone else involved.
Thank you to everyone sharing the story and helping to raise awareness.
We're keeping our heads up and remaining hopeful that we find him safe."
Posters saying "missing American male" were seen on the beach as police continue their investigation.
Despite the police activity and the helicopters overhead, the area continues to be packed with tourists. Bars in the area are still open.
