The Higginbotham family from Birmingham, Alabama, is desperately seeking the safe return of their son, Weston, who went missing during a family vacation in Japan. Weston, a 20-year-old environmental engineering student at Auburn University, was last seen on May 29 in Kyoto, Japan. His disappearance has sparked a search effort involving local authorities and volunteers, even as a typhoon approaches the area.

Family’s Plea for Help

Weston’s mother, Nancy Higginbotham, recounted how her son, an experienced traveler and nature enthusiast, decided to explore Kyoto alone while the rest of the family visited a nearby temple. His phone’s location was turned off, which was out of character for him, prompting the family to report him missing to local authorities.

Weston was last seen on CCTV footage walking alone in Kyoto’s Yamashina area, a region known for its mountainous and forested terrain. Despite the challenging weather conditions, police have deployed officers, police dogs, and a helicopter to search the area.

Community and International Support

The family has received support from both the U.S. embassy in Japan and the FBI, who are assisting in the search. Auburn University has also reached out to offer support to the family. In Birmingham, friends and loved ones gathered for a vigil at a local church, praying for Weston’s safe return.

Japanese civilians have shown remarkable kindness, volunteering to distribute flyers and act as translators. This outpouring of support has been a source of comfort for the Higginbotham family during this difficult time.

Weston’s father, Keith, remains hopeful, believing that his son, who has strong survival skills, will be found soon. The family is determined to stay in Japan until they are reunited with Weston.

Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.