Weston Higginbotham, a student from Auburn University who had disappeared during a trip to Japan, was tragically found dead after an exhaustive search. As reported by ABC 7, he was originally reported missing on May 29.
His mother, Nancy, released a heartbreaking statement on Facebook confirming his passing. "Our family is heartbroken to share that Weston was found deceased by a volunteer search-and-rescue group in a mountainous area outside of Kyoto. The grief we feel is impossible to put into words."
As we previously reported when Weston tragically went missing, he was known to be a seasoned hiker and an "excellent navigator". His phone had lost connection after he alighted from a train in the Yamashina Ward.
Her statement continued, "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. The outpouring of kindness and support has carried us through the darkest days of our lives."
She also ended the statement with heartfelt thanks, and a request for continued prayer. "We will need them now more than ever," she wrote. "We will always love you, Weston."
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The Auburn Student May Have Had an Argument Prior to His Disappearance
As we previously reported, Higginbotham may have also had an argument with his mother before his disappearance. According to his mother, they had been "bickering" over her use of ChatGPT prior to his disappearance. She explained that "we just needed some separation". And, as he was an experienced hiker, his "happy place" was nature trails and exploration. So it was the natural place for him to go.
Social Media Erupted in Heartbreak for Higginbotham's Family
People on social media sent prayers and well-wishes to the family.
One commenter wrote, "I am so sorry to read this. It is a truly heartbreaking outcome, I know so many people far and wide have been praying for a positive outcome. Praying for you and your family."
Another commenter wrote, "Praying for you and believing that the Lord will be close by. (The Lord is close to the broken-hearted, Psalm 34:18).
As of yet, no public officials from either Japan or the U.S. have commented on his death. However, they previously expressed a desire to cooperate in the search efforts.
Rest in peace, Weston Higginbotham.
