With profound sadness, Weston Higginbotham’s family has shared that Weston has been found deceased in a mountainous area outside of Kyoto, Japan.
What began as a desperate search for a beloved son has ended in the outcome no family ever wants to face.
Weston was more than a missing person. He was a son, a brother, a grandson, a friend, a student, and a young man who loved the outdoors and found joy in nature. He was deeply loved by his family, and his absence was felt by thousands of people across the world who followed his story and hoped for his safe return.
For days, his family searched tirelessly while communities across the United States, Japan, and beyond shared his story, prayed, offered support, and refused to give up hope. That love and compassion surrounded Weston and his family throughout this unimaginable journey.
Today, our hearts are with those who knew and loved him most. No parent should have to endure the pain of losing a child, and no words can truly ease the grief his family is now carrying.
As they navigate this devastating loss, we ask everyone to respect the family’s request for privacy and continue to keep them in your thoughts.
Rest peacefully, Weston. You were loved, you mattered, and you will not be forgotten. 🕊️
The family shared the following statement:
“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.
We are forever grateful for the time we had with our sweet, precious Weston, but cannot begin to understand what life without him will be like.
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.
We shared our story here and in the media in the hope of finding Weston. We now ask for privacy as we begin to navigate this unimaginable loss.
Thank you for your thoughts, prayers, and support. We will need them now more than ever.
We will always love you, Weston.”
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