Family’s Determined Search for Missing Auburn Student in Japan

James “Weston” Higginbotham, a 20-year-old engineering student from Auburn University, has been missing in Japan since May 29. His mother, Nancy Higginbotham, shared with CBS News that a disagreement over her use of ChatGPT during their vacation preceded his disappearance.

Nancy referred to ChatGPT usage as “a sore subject” between them. “I was using a little bit too much ChatGPT. Japan is a country that I’ve had a hard time navigating,” she mentioned. Her son Weston, passionate about sustainability engineering, disapproved of AI technology due to its significant water consumption.

On the day of his disappearance in Kyoto, Japan, Weston opted to stay behind while his family visited a nearby temple. His parents noticed his location shift via a family tracking app, but their texts went unanswered. This diligent Auburn student was last sighted at the Yamashina train station and was presumed to have headed towards a hiking trail, given his love for hiking.

Nancy expressed her worries, stating, “My fear is that he got hurt, is stuck, or lost without food. Those mountains and forests are vast and incredibly dense.”

“My fear is that he doesn’t have enough food because there is plenty of water…”

The initial search efforts by the police involved 100 officers, K9 dogs, and helicopters over three days, yet they found no trace of him. Consequently, authorities have concluded their search in the designated area.

However, the family is not giving up. They have engaged a professional search and rescue team in Japan, with costs expected to exceed $100,000. Weston’s father, Keith Higginbotham, remains hopeful, stating, “We have complete confidence that we are going to find him.” The family is adamant about not leaving Japan until they reunite with their son.