The family of the U.S. college student found dead on spring break has issued a public request.
Jimmy Gracey, a student at the University of Alabama, was found dead on spring break in Europe. The Crimson Tide student went missing on March 17, after a night out with friends, and his body was found two days later.
Now, in the wake of his death, his family is speaking out.
Gracey's family is requesting privacy at this time, as they are inundated with media requests and speaking opportunities.
"Our family is heartbroken as we confirm that Jimmy’s body has been recovered in Barcelona," the family said in a statement obtained by PEOPLE.
"Jimmy was a deeply loved son, grandson, brother, nephew, cousin, and friend, and our family is struggling to come to terms with this unimaginable loss," they added. "We are profoundly grateful for the outpouring of love, support, and prayers from people around the world – so many helped to share Jimmy’s story and bring his life to light so that others may know him."
Gracey's family wants things to be private for now.
"As we navigate this painful time, we kindly ask for privacy so that we may grieve together and begin to process his loss as a family," they wrote.
Gracey, 20, was found dead in the waters near Somorrostro Beach, local police confirmed.
His mother, Therese Marren Gracey, said in a since-deleted Facebook post that he had been "visiting friends in Barcelona who are studying abroad." She said that her son and some friends visited the beachfront club Shôko on Monday, March 16. His mother wrote that he never make it back to the place where they were staying.
"He was last seen by his friend at Shoko around 3 a.m.," she wrote. "The friend was leaving but Jimmy stayed."
The University of Alabama student's body was found floating in the sea.
The school released a statement.
"Jimmy’s loss is deeply felt across our campus. Our condolences are with the Gracey family during this devastating time. We ask that their privacy be respected as they grieve," they wrote. "The University has been in close contact with the family throughout the week and will continue to provide support to them and to Jimmy’s friends, classmates, and all members of our community who are affected by this tragedy."
