Tragic Discovery: Missing American Student Found Dead in Japan

James "Weston" Higginbotham, a 20-year-old engineering student from Auburn University, was found dead in a mountainous area near Kyoto, Japan. Missing since May 29, his family had been searching for him after he chose to stay behind while they visited a temple. The search involved over 100 police officers and a professional rescue team. His mother expressed deep gratitude for the support received during the search and requested privacy as they navigate this tragic loss. The cause of death remains undisclosed, leaving many questions unanswered.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 6, 2026, 21:51 IST

Missing Student Found in Japan

James "Weston" Higginbotham, a 20-year-old engineering student from Auburn University, has been discovered deceased in a mountainous region close to Kyoto, Japan, as confirmed by his mother on Saturday. Higginbotham had been unaccounted for since May 29 while visiting Japan with his family. His mother, Nancy Higginbotham, shared the news on Facebook, stating that a volunteer search-and-rescue team located him. The cause of death has not yet been disclosed, and additional information is currently unavailable.

During the trip, Higginbotham was with his parents and brother when he decided to stay behind while they explored a nearby temple. His family noticed his location changing on a tracking app and attempted to contact him via text, but received no reply. He was reportedly last seen departing from a train station in Kyoto, with the family believing he was heading towards a hiking trail. Nancy Higginbotham expressed her concerns to CBS News, fearing that her son might have gotten lost or injured.

The search operation involved over 100 police personnel, along with dogs and helicopters. After being informed that official search efforts were being halted, the family engaged a professional rescue team. In her announcement regarding her son's discovery, Nancy Higginbotham expressed her family's gratitude for the time spent with Weston, stating they cannot fathom life without him. She also extended her thanks to everyone who supported the search, saying, "We are deeply grateful to the countless people across the United States, Japan, and around the world who shared Weston's story, prayed for our family, offered encouragement, and helped in the search efforts." She concluded by requesting privacy as they cope with this unimaginable loss.