The remains of Grant Barr, a 37-year-old American banker who went missing in Estepona, Spain, on January 28, 2025, have been discovered over two months later, according to reports. Barr was staying with family and friends in the Costa del Sol resort town when he vanished.
The Search and Discovery of Barr’s Remains
Following Barr’s disappearance, a pair of his pants and his passport were found abandoned near a beach in Estepona, sparking a months-long search by his family. Despite their ongoing efforts to find him, it was later revealed that Barr’s body had washed ashore on March 3, but it was not identified until early April.
This tragic discovery meant that Barr’s family had been searching for weeks, unaware that his remains had already been collected by Spanish authorities.
The Family’s Grief and Ongoing Search
On April 6, Barr’s brother, James, spoke to the Spanish Eye newspaper, expressing his heartbreak and determination. “We were notified late Friday that Grant’s remains were found washed ashore,” he said, adding that they were still awaiting a full report on the exact location of the discovery.
James also shared that DNA testing was required to confirm the identity of his brother’s remains. Barr’s family, including his mother Soheila, father Michael, and brothers Luke and James, traveled to Estepona as soon as they were notified, going through a difficult week of back-and-forth with local authorities and courts before finally receiving the remains.
The Final Farewell
Once Barr’s remains were released by the coroner’s office, the family was able to cremate him and bring him home. James described the overwhelming emotions of the situation, acknowledging that while the worst-case scenario had crossed their minds, they had never truly expected this outcome.
Barr’s brother Luke shared a heartfelt message after his passing:
“Our Brother passed on doing what he loved: facing the sea in its magnificent beauty and terrible might. Most Beloved Grant! We did not know that you were so many steps ahead of us! We will catch up to you soon, and be with you in paradise.”
An Unsettling Revelation
The family learned that Barr’s remains had actually been found over a month before they were informed. “It means the last time we were all there searching for two weeks, he was already found,” James said, expressing frustration that authorities hadn’t informed them sooner.
The cause of death was reported as drowning, but further details on the circumstances surrounding Barr’s death remain unclear. The family is still awaiting a more comprehensive report from authorities.
Barr’s Life and Career
Grant Barr had worked in the finance sector in New York and frequently visited Estepona to spend time with his family. He had held positions at major corporations, including Citi, according to his LinkedIn profile.
Authorities’ Silence
The Guardia Civil and Policía Nacional have yet to comment on the latest developments, leaving the family with more questions about how and why Barr’s death occurred.