Weston Higginbotham, a 20-year-old student from Auburn University, was tragically found deceased in Japan after being reported missing. Higginbotham had been visiting Japan with his family when he disappeared on May 29. He chose to stay behind while his parents and brother visited a nearby temple. His last known location was leaving a train station in Kyoto, with intentions to head to a nearby hiking trail.

Search Efforts and Family’s Response

Higginbotham’s disappearance prompted a significant search effort in Japan, involving over 100 police officers, K9 units, and helicopters. Despite these efforts, Japanese authorities eventually suspended the search, leading the family to hire a professional rescue crew. His mother, Nancy Higginbotham, shared her fears that her son may have become injured or lost during his hike.

In a heartfelt message on Facebook, Nancy Higginbotham expressed her family’s gratitude for the time they had with Weston and the overwhelming support they received from people across the United States, Japan, and around the world. She acknowledged the kindness and encouragement that helped them through this difficult time.

“We are deeply grateful to the countless people who shared Weston’s story, prayed for our family, offered encouragement, and helped in the search efforts,” she wrote. The family has asked for privacy as they begin to navigate their loss.

Original reporting: KTSA News/Talk (San Antonio) — read the source article.