Parents of Auburn Student Missing in Japan Think He Turned Off His Phone Because They Were Sending ‘Too Many Messages’

The family of a missing American college student has shared their heart-wrenching experience amidst the search for their son, who vanished during a family holiday in Japan. Twenty-year-old James “Weston” Higginbotham was last seen on May 29 in Kyoto, prompting an urgent search as his parents seek to raise awareness about his disappearance.

Weston was reportedly travelling with his family to celebrate his brother’s high school graduation. In light of some family tensions, his mother, Nancy Higginbotham, revealed that they decided to split up temporarily, allowing each person some space. “We had been bickering a bit,” she explained to media outlets. “We thought a break might help, and Weston just needed some time by himself.”

However, the brief separation turned into a nightmare when Weston failed to return home. His last confirmed location was Yamashina station in Kyoto, where he disembarked from a train on that fateful Friday. It remains uncertain whether he boarded another train thereafter. Although he did not inform his family of his intended destination, friends and loved ones noted his passion for hiking in the region and suggested that he may have ventured onto nearby trails.

His father, Keith Higginbotham, expressed concern over Weston’s sudden decision to turn off his mobile phone later that evening—a move his parents described as uncharacteristic of the young man, who is known for being well-connected with his family. “We’re a close family,” Keith said. “We always know where each other is.” Despite being an independent college student at Auburn University, Weston has always remained in contact with his family, even during his studies.

Auburn University released a statement, expressing their support for Weston’s family amid this distressing time. “Our thoughts are with Weston, his family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time,” the statement read. “Out of respect for the family’s privacy and ongoing efforts to locate Weston, the university has no further comment.”

Physically, Weston has been described as 6 feet 1 inch tall with long blonde hair and blue eyes. Upon his disappearance, he was notably attired in a white T-shirt emblazoned with “Save the Bees,” paired with lavender corduroy trousers. His mother emphasised her concern regarding his emotional state, appealing for public assistance in locating him. “He may be emotionally distressed, so this is urgent,” Nancy posted on social media.

Since the announcement of Weston’s disappearance, the local police have continuously searched the area, utilising resources such as search dogs and helicopters, particularly on June 4, when Japanese police officers scoured the environment for any clues. Nancy reported receiving regular updates from the U.S. Embassy, which is assisting in the efforts to locate her son.

Local communities have rallied around the Higginbotham family, distributing missing person flyers as Weston’s situation becomes increasingly known in the region. His mother’s hope remains unwavering as she reflects on her son’s great character. “He’s the sweetest person you could ever meet,” she shared. “He’s a vegan. He wouldn’t hurt a mosquito. He’s amazing.”

While Nancy remains hopeful, she also acknowledges the stress of the situation. Still, she is bolstered by the support received from the public and has faith in her son’s survival skills. “He is built to endure six days of being out in the wilderness,” she declared resolutely. “He can survive, he is out there, and we are going to find him.”

As the search continues, Weston’s family implores anyone with information about his whereabouts to come forward. The case serves as a painful reminder of how fleeting moments can turn into tragedies for families, underscoring the importance of community support in times of crisis.