The Auburn University student who mysteriously vanished while exploring Japan has been found ᴅᴇᴀᴅ, his grieving family revealed Saturday in an emotional announcement that has left friends, classmates, and supporters around the world devastated.
James “Weston” Higginbotham’s body was discovered “in a mountainous area outside of Kyoto” by a dedicated volunteer search-and-rescue team, his heartbroken mother confirmed on Facebook.
“We are forever grateful for the time we had with our sweet, precious Weston, but cannot begin to understand what life without him will be like,” wrote Nancy Higginbotham. “The grief we feel is impossible to put into words. … We will always love you, Weston.”
Higginbotham’s cause of death was not immediately clear, adding another layer of anguish to an already unimaginable tragedy.
The 20-year-old student, who was in Japan on what was supposed to be a memorable family vacation, went missing on May 29 after traveling to Kyoto’s Yamashina Ward in the eastern part of the historic city. Higginbotham had left his parents and brother to explore the area on his own after a minor disagreement with his mother over her use of ChatGPT to help navigate their trip, according to reports.
“It’s not unusual for Weston to blow off steam, go into the woods and just explore,” Nancy told CNN. “That’s his happy place. But it was unusual that he turned off his location.”
Hours before Higginbotham’s body was located, the grief-stricken mom stressed that the family knew he was “out in these woods somewhere,” describing the environment as “very dense and the terrain is steep.” The remote, heavily forested mountainous region outside Kyoto is known for its challenging hiking paths, thick vegetation, and dramatic slopes that can quickly disorient even experienced adventurers—conditions that likely complicated the extensive search efforts involving local authorities and volunteers.
Following the horrific discovery, the family publicly thanked the countless people who had shared their story and aided in the desperate search. “The outpouring of kindness and support has carried us through the darkest days of our lives,” the family wrote. “Thank you for your thoughts, prayers, and support. We will need them now more than ever.”
Weston, a promising young man with a bright future ahead, was remembered by loved ones as adventurous and free-spirited, someone who found peace and joy in nature. His sudden disappearance during what should have been a joyful family trip to Japan has shaken the Auburn University community and beyond, sparking an outpouring of tributes from fellow students, faculty, and strangers moved by the family’s pain.
As investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding his death, the Higginbotham family now faces the unimaginable task of saying goodbye to their beloved son and brother. Their strength and grace amid such profound loss serve as a heartbreaking reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring power of family bonds. Our thoughts remain with them during this incredibly difficult time.