The Higginbotham family from Birmingham, Alabama, is desperately seeking the return of their son, Weston, who went missing during a family vacation in Japan. Weston, a 20-year-old junior at Auburn University studying environmental engineering, disappeared after setting off on his own to explore Kyoto on May 29.

Search Efforts Intensify

Weston’s mother, Nancy Higginbotham, reported that her son, an experienced traveler and nature enthusiast, often explored alone. However, concern grew when his phone’s location was turned off, an unusual behavior for him. The family, who had been in Japan since May 22, immediately reported him missing to local authorities when he failed to return.

Local police have been actively searching the Yamashina area, where Weston was last seen on CCTV footage around 8 p.m. on May 29. The search has been complicated by a typhoon, which brought heavy rains to the region. Despite the challenging conditions, authorities are continuing their efforts, deploying officers, police dogs, and a helicopter.

Community Support and Family’s Hope

The family remains hopeful, drawing strength from the support of both the local Japanese community and their friends back home. Volunteers in Japan have been assisting by distributing flyers and helping with translations, while loved ones in Birmingham gathered for a vigil at a local church to pray for Weston’s safe return.

Weston’s father, Keith, expressed determination to find his son, emphasizing Weston’s survival skills and the family’s unwavering hope. The family has also been in contact with the US embassy and the FBI, who are assisting in the search efforts.

As the search continues, the Higginbotham family holds onto their faith and the memories of their son, hoping for his safe return.

Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.