Alabama family searching for Auburn student missing in Japan: ‘We are in our own living hell’

A community is coming together in prayer tonight for James "Weston" Higginbotham, an Auburn University student who has been reported missing in Japan. A vigil is scheduled from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Asbury United Methodist Church on Cahaba Valley Road.

A Desperate Search in Kyoto

Higginbotham, a 20-year-old honors graduate of Spain Park High School, was last confirmed to be in the Kyoto area on May 29. His parents, Nancy and Keith Higginbotham, are currently in Japan as part of a graduation trip for Weston’s younger brother. As they lead the search effort, the family is grappling with an unimaginable situation.

"Please be kind. We are in our own living hell," his mother shared on social media. "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."

Identifying the Missing Student

According to his family, Weston is a dedicated environmental engineering student at Auburn, an experienced traveler, and a skilled navigator. In a post shared with the Kyoto Expats and Internationals Facebook group, Nancy Higginbotham provided critical details about his last known appearance. Weston was wearing a white "Save the Bees" T-shirt, lavender corduroy pants with a large cuff, and worn-out white Adidas shoes with black stripes. He was also carrying a shoulder bag featuring the state of Alabama.

Nancy noted that his phone location has been turned off and warned that he may be experiencing emotional distress, making the search increasingly urgent. She urged the public not to share his exact location publicly if he is spotted.

Tracing His Steps

Local authorities have determined that Weston last exited a train at the Yamashina station. While it remains unclear if he boarded another train, his family suspects he may have sought out nature trails. "Weston is a very experienced hiker, and this town has beautiful nature trails. He may have intentionally chosen a quiet trail from Yamashina," his mother wrote.

Despite a typhoon impacting the region, the family continues to press forward with the search. Nancy and Keith previously attempted to scour the woods with flashlights, but encountered difficulties with local wildlife. She has since reached out for assistance from the community to help search once the storm passes.

Official Support Engaged

State Rep. Mike Shaw, R-Hoover, who chairs the Japan Legislative Exchange in the House of Representatives, expressed deep concern while highlighting Japan's reputation as one of the safest countries in the world. Shaw, alongside State Rep. Susan DuBose, R-Hoover, has been in contact with Mark B. Jackson, Honorary Consul General of Japan, and the Consulate General of Japan in Atlanta.

"We understand that the appropriate resources are engaged and searching for Weston," Shaw said. "Let’s all pray for Weston’s safe return, for strength and peace for his family, and for wisdom and endurance for everyone involved in the search."