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Alabama Family Urges for Safe Return of Missing Son in Japan

KVIA•Thursday, June 4, 2026 at 9:14 AM•CNN Newsource

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Weston Higginbotham, a 20-year-old college student from Alabama, has been missing since May 29 during a family trip to Japan. After separating from his family to explore Kyoto, his phone's location was turned off, prompting a search by local authorities in the mountainous region. The family has reported him missing after he was last seen on CCTV around 8 p.m. in the Yamashina area, which is near a hiking trail. Despite having some cash and a phone, concerns have grown due to an approaching typhoon that may affect search efforts. The family remains hopeful for his safe return and has received support from the local community and U.S. officials.

Key Details: • Weston was last seen on May 29 at 8 p.m. in Yamashina, Japan. • He had approximately 10,000 yen (about $62.50) on him when he went missing. • Authorities are conducting a search with police dogs and helicopters in the area. • The family is in contact with the U.S. embassy and the FBI for assistance. • A vigil was held in Birmingham, Alabama, to support the family during this difficult time.

family missing-persons community-support japan search-efforts

People & Organizations

FBIU.S. EmbassyBirminghamAuburn UniversityWeston HigginbothamNancy HigginbothamKeith HigginbothamRobert HoltKyotoYamashina

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