“Please Be Kind”: Family’s Search for Missing Auburn Student Ends in Tragedy
What began as a family vacation to Japan turned into a heartbreaking international search after Auburn University student James “Weston” Higginbotham disappeared near Kyoto in late May 2026.
Weston, described by his family as an experienced traveler, environmental engineering student, and passionate nature lover, vanished after separating from his parents following a disagreement during the trip. His mother, Nancy Higginbotham, later shared that the argument involved concerns about society’s growing dependence on artificial intelligence.
Investigators used surveillance footage, train records, and phone data to trace Weston’s final known movements. Authorities determined he arrived at Kyoto Station on May 29 before traveling east toward the Yamashina area, near several mountain trails and hiking routes.
As search efforts intensified, volunteers, police, helicopters, and online supporters joined the effort across Kyoto and nearby regions. Nancy repeatedly pleaded for compassion while sharing updates online.
“Please be kind. We are in our own living hell,” she wrote.
For days, the family followed possible sightings and searched dense wooded areas, hoping Weston would be found alive.
On June 6, Nancy announced the devastating outcome.
“Our family is heartbroken to share that Weston was found deceased by a volunteer search-and-rescue group in a mountainous area outside Kyoto,” she wrote.
The family thanked supporters from around the world who helped search for Weston and asked for privacy as they grieve their unimaginable loss.
