abcnews.com 2 days ago URGENCY: 7/10

Missing American Student Found Dead in Japan

Tragic news as James 'Weston' Higginbotham, a missing Auburn University student, is found dead in Japan. Discover the circumstances surrounding this heartbreaking incident and the family's plea for privacy.

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Missing American Student Found Dead in Japan

Circumstances of the Discovery

James 'Weston' Higginbotham, a 20-year-old student from Auburn University, was reported missing on May 29 during a family trip in Japan. His mother, Nancy Higginbotham, shared the devastating news of his death, which was confirmed by volunteers searching a mountainous area near Kyoto. The family had been actively seeking help to locate him after he stopped responding to messages and turned off his location services.

Authorities are still investigating the cause of death, which remains unclear. Initial reports suggest that Higginbotham may have left his family intentionally, raising concerns about his safety due to language barriers and unfamiliarity with the area. Nancy Higginbotham expressed her family's profound grief, stating, "We are forever grateful for the time we had with our sweet, precious Weston."

  • Key points to note:
  • Higginbotham was last seen on May 29.
  • His family reported him missing after losing contact.
  • Investigators are examining his movements and items left behind.
The family is now requesting privacy as they navigate this unimaginable loss.