Auburn student missing in Japan after AI argument

A family vacation in Japan turned into a distressing ordeal for the Higginbothams of Alabama when their 20-year-old son, James Weston Higginbotham, went missing on May 29. The Auburn University student, described as an experienced traveler, disappeared after a brief argument with his mother, Nancy Higginbotham, over the use of AI for their itinerary.

According to his mother, Weston, a naturalist, expressed concerns about the environmental impact of AI. Following the disagreement, Weston left Kyoto Station alone around 6 p.m. His family last saw his location via an app around 8 p.m. as he walked towards a hiking trail in the Yamashina area, after which his phone's location was turned off. This behavior was out of character, as Weston typically shared his location with his family.

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It’s not unusual for Weston to blow off steam going to the woods and just exploring. That’s his happy place. I’m thinking … he’s just off in the woods, and he got lost.

The search for Weston is now a joint effort involving Japanese police, civilian volunteers, and the FBI. The family, who arrived in Japan on May 22 to celebrate Weston's younger brother's high school graduation, are resolute in their decision to remain in the country until Weston is found. Auburn University has acknowledged the disappearance and offered support to the family.

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While we were visiting a temple, Weston gets on a train. We’re texting him, saying, ‘Hey, where are you?’ You know, ‘What are you doing?’