Auburn University student goes missing in Japan, parents launch search

KYOTO, JAPAN: An Auburn University student has gone missing while vacationing with his family in Japan, prompting a desperate search by his parents. 

James 'Weston' Higginbotham was last confirmed to be in Kyoto on May 29, while his family is now pleading for the public's assistance in locating him.

Details released in search for missing Auburn student

The 20-year-old student arrived in Japan with his family on May 25, but his trip took a harrowing turn when he went missing in Kyoto.

His mother, Nancy Higginbotham, has taken to social media to share details about her son, who stands 6ft 1inch tall with long blonde hair and blue eyes.

According to a dedicated search website, Weston was last seen wearing a white shirt with 'Save the Bees' written on the back, lavender corduroy pants, white Adidas sneakers with black stripes, and a shoulder bag featuring the state of Alabama. 

While his parents continue to search for him, Nancy has shared the reality of their situation, stating, "Please be kind. We are in our own living hell. He is not detained from a night out partying. The police have confirmed this. Please, I beg you, be kind. I'm already in so much pain."

James Higginbotham's last known movements and surveillance

Investigators have been able to trace Weston’s movements through recent activity and security footage.

His final confirmed purchase occurred at a Kohnan hardware store in Kyoto before he traveled to the Kyoto train station, where his phone signal was lost at approximately 8.29 pm local time.

Further investigation revealed that he arrived at Yamashina Station, which is only a short distance away, though it remains unclear if he boarded another train afterward.

As the family works alongside local authorities, they have urged the public to check various locations, including public transit hubs, lodging, and even the surrounding wooded areas.

Parents battle typhoons and wildlife in desperate search

Despite the immense emotional toll, Weston's parents are actively searching for their son, even as adverse weather conditions complicate their efforts.

Nancy has noted that while her son is an "experienced hiker with an excellent sense of direction," they have struggled with the local terrain during their own search attempts.

Regarding the ongoing challenges, his mother stated, "I know there is a typhoon currently hitting, but I will be there today searching the woods today. My husband and I went last night with flashlights and headlamps and didn't get too far because we weren't prepared for the wildlife we encountered. If anyone wants to join us after the storm, I would be grateful."

The family has requested that anyone who may spot their son should contact local police immediately, rather than sharing the information publicly.