The family of a 20-year-old American university student has made a heartfelt appeal for assistance following his mysterious disappearance during a family holiday in Japan. James “Weston” Higginbotham was last seen on May 29 while in the Kyoto region, where he was celebrating his younger brother’s high school graduation. His parents, Nancy and Keith Higginbotham, have been proactive in seeking help from the public as they continue their efforts to locate him.
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Weston, a student at Auburn University, is described by his parents as an experienced hiker, which raises concerns about his wellbeing after he was last caught on CCTV disembarking from a train. In a video shared on social media on June 3, the couple urged people to amplify their appeal to help disseminate information about their son’s disappearance.
Nancy Higginbotham expressed deep gratitude for the public support they have received. “Every time that you guys repost on social media, it’s an opportunity for somebody in Japan to see it. That is our ultimate goal, is for people in Japan to see Weston’s face so they could report back to us,” she emphasized. Her husband, Keith, echoed these sentiments, stating, “We couldn’t do it without everyone’s support,” as they remain hopeful that the power of social media could lead to new developments in their search.
As part of their outreach, Nancy conveyed the emotional impact of their situation, sharing details of Weston’s character. “He has a heart of gold, and we all want him to come back safely,” she said. Both parents reiterated their belief that with the community’s assistance, they would find their son. Keith confidently declared, “We’re gonna find him because of everyone’s help in posting and getting the word out.”
Initially, concerns arose when Weston did not return after going out, prompting his parents to seek help from authorities. Nancy clarified on social media that he was not detained due to partying. “The police have confirmed this. Please, I beg you, be kind. I’m already in so much pain,” she wrote in a post on June 1, accompanied by photos highlighting Weston’s cheerful spirit.
She noted that Weston was last seen in the Yamashina district and might have chosen to venture down a quieter hiking trail, a decision stemming possibly from emotional distress. The parents reported that his last known phone activity occurred that evening, further raising alarms about his safety.
Despite their efforts to search for him in the area he was last seen, his parents were hindered by inclement weather conditions, specifically a typhoon that hit the region shortly after Weston went missing. Nancy shared their experience, stating, “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.” She also extended an invitation for others to join them in their search once the storm subsided.
Local officials have been informed of Weston’s disappearance. Representative Mike Shaw, who serves Alabama’s 47th District, has been in communication with diplomatic representatives in Japan. He confirmed that resources are being mobilised to assist in the search for the missing student. Shaw commended the character of Weston, saying, “If you know Weston, you know what a great kid he is.”
The Higginbotham family is overwhelmed by the outreach and support they have received from their local community and beyond. The couple continues to express their hope that social media can play an instrumental role in finding their son. In their shared pleas, they highlighted that any information could be crucial in reuniting them with Weston.
As the search efforts persist, the family remains steadfast in their commitment to finding their beloved son. Weston’s story has resonated with many, as people join in their quest for answers, shining a light on the plight of families faced with similar challenges. The family urges anyone with potential information to come forward, holding onto the belief that together, they can bring Weston home safe and sound.