The parents of James “Weston” Higginbotham have shared a map to assist in the search for their missing son in Japan. They ask locals to join efforts in locating him.
Nancy Higginbotham, Weston’s mother, took to Facebook to share a screenshot of a Google Maps view showing a wooded area in the Yamashina mountains, Kyoto. A large red circle marks where local police have already searched. “We are seeking experienced hikers to check areas outside the marked zone, especially in remote mountain trails,” she posted.
“Those unfamiliar with Japanese, lacking map apps, unprepared with food, lightly dressed, with no communicated route plan, or those starting hikes late in the day should exercise extreme caution. Your safety is paramount,” warned a local.
Nancy also highlighted the danger for foreign visitors unfamiliar with the terrain.
Details on Weston Higginbotham’s Disappearance
This is the seventh day since James “Weston” Higginbotham was reported missing. The 20-year-old, a student at Auburn University, disappeared during a family trip to Japan on May 29. He was last spotted in Kyoto around 8:15 p.m. local time. CCTV later confirmed his presence at Yamashina Station.
According to his mother, the family had separated that day, with Weston exploring solo while his parents and younger brother visited a temple. Known for being an “excellent navigator” and an Ironman triathlete, his parents weren’t initially worried about his solo exploration.
By evening, Higginbotham had not responded to their texts, and his phone’s live location was off, which they found unusual. They reported him missing at 2 a.m. local time.
Since his disappearance, Japan has been battered by a typhoon. It hit Wakayama prefecture, inducing high-level flood warnings and heavy rain in Yamashina on Wednesday.
Newsweek has reached out to Nancy Higginbotham for more details. Anyone with helpful information is urged to contact Kyoto police or the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
The situation is ongoing, and more updates will follow.
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