Search continues for Alabama college student missing in Japan: ‘He has a heart of gold’

The search for James “Weston” Higginbotham, an Alabama college student who went missing in Japan, has intensified as his family remains hopeful for his safe return. Weston, a 20-year-old honors graduate of Spain Park High School and an environmental engineering student at Auburn, was last confirmed to be in the Kyoto area on May 29, according to previous reporting.

Weston’s parents, Nancy and Keith Higginbotham, are currently in Japan, where they were visiting for a graduation trip for their younger son, Grayton. In a video message, Keith expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of support, noting that they are feeling closer to locating their son every day. “He has a heart of gold and we all want him to come back safely,” Nancy added.

Search efforts in Kyoto

Japanese authorities have dedicated significant resources to the search, with Nancy reporting that police deployed 50 officers alongside tracking dogs and helicopters. Despite rainy weather and steep terrain, search teams have been working extensively, specifically focusing on the Yamashina area. While the most recent efforts around the hills behind Bishamondo and the Otowa area did not lead to a recovery, the family continues to express immense appreciation for the tireless work of the Japanese police, the FBI, the U.S. Embassy, and various volunteers.

Nancy has provided identifying details to aid in the search: Weston was last seen wearing a “Save the Bees” white 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 a map of Alabama. His family notes that he is an experienced traveler and an excellent navigator, though they expressed concern that he may be experiencing emotional distress.

Community support from home

Back in Alabama, local leadership is rallying around the Higginbotham family. Hoover Mayor Nick Derzis stated, “Stephanie and I are praying for the swift return of Weston,” while committing to supporting the family as they navigate this crisis. State Representatives Mike Shaw and Susan DuBose have also confirmed they are working closely with the Consulate General of Japan in Atlanta to ensure the appropriate resources remain focused on the search.

“We will continue to have hope, and we will find Weston,” Nancy said, echoing the family's determination to bring him home safely.