A strong typhoon has slowed down the search for James “Weston” Higginbotham, a 20-year-old student from Auburn University missing near Kyoto, Japan. Rescue teams are tirelessly searching the foothills with dogs and aerial patrols.
Higginbotham, an experienced hiker, was on vacation with his family. He disappeared after taking a solo train ride to a hiking area on May 29. His mother, Nancy Higginbotham, mentioned that hiking brings him peace and rejuvenation.
Family members tracked him using a tracking app while they visited a nearby temple. They noticed his location changing that evening, but he did not reply to their messages. The last known sighting was captured by CCTV at the Yamashina train station. At that time, he wore a “Save the Bees” T-shirt and lavender pants.
Nancy Higginbotham reassured everyone of her son’s survival skills, expressing confidence that he might remain alive if lost in the woods. The family had planned to return to Alabama but decided to stay in Japan until he is found. “We’re not flying home tonight,” she affirmed.
James’ father, Keith Higginbotham, expressed the difficulty of leaving without him, emphasizing the absence they feel.
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