Auburn student’s death in Japan ‘tragedy felt across our entire community’
Hoover Mayor Nick Derzis said that James “Weston” Higginbotham’s death was a, “tragedy felt across our entire community.”
Mason Reed 
The Alabama community is mourning the loss of James “Weston” Higginbotham, a 20-year-old Auburn University student who was found dead in Japan following an extensive search.
Weston, an environmental engineering major and honor graduate of Spain Park High School, had been reported missing on May 29 while traveling abroad with his family. His mother, Nancy Higginbotham, confirmed the tragic news on Saturday, noting that her son was discovered by a volunteer search-and-rescue team in a mountainous region near Kyoto.
A Community in Mourning
Hoover Mayor Nick Derzis expressed deep sorrow over the loss, calling it a “tragedy felt across our entire community.” In a statement shared via Facebook, Derzis praised the way local residents rallied in support and prayer during the search efforts. He extended his deepest condolences to the Higginbotham family, including parents Keith and Nancy and family member Grayton.
In a heartfelt social media tribute, Nancy Higginbotham expressed the family's profound heartbreak. She stated that while the grief is indescribable, the family remains incredibly grateful for the time they shared with Weston. She also offered her sincere thanks to the individuals across the globe who offered prayers, shared Weston’s story, and contributed to the search efforts.
Global Support Efforts
The search operation was substantial, with Nancy noting that Japanese authorities deployed 50 police officers, tracking dogs, and helicopters to comb the area. Additionally, a GoFundMe initiative successfully raised over $56,000 to assist with the search expenses.
The impact of Weston’s passing reached the highest levels of Alabama leadership, with both Senators Katie Britt and Tommy Tuberville issuing statements on X to offer their condolences to the Higginbotham family.
