Authorities Examine Multiple Causes In Brett Gardner Son’s Sudden Death

Heartbreaking new details have emerged in the tragic passing of Miller Gardner, the 14-year-old son of former New York Yankees outfielder Brett Gardner, who died while on a family vacation in Costa Rica last week.

Miller’s body was discovered on Friday in a hotel room in Manuel Antonio, a well-known resort destination along Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast.

As the investigation continues, police are looking at two possible causes of death in relation to the passing of Brett Gardner's son.

According to Costa Rica’s Judicial Investigation Police (OIJ), Miller and several members of the Gardner family became ill, likely from food poisoning, during their stay at the Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort, a luxury hotel located in Manuel Antonio.

“The whole family fell ill, likely from food poisoning from something they ate,” the OIJ confirmed to CNN on Tuesday.

While the exact cause of Miller’s death is still under investigation, early findings suggest the teen may have died from asphyxiation, possibly as a result of complications stemming from severe illness.

“It’s probable [Miller] suffered a possible intoxication after apparently ingesting some food,” an OIJ official told NBC News on Monday. Final results from the autopsy and toxicology reports are still pending.

In a statement to Daily Mail, the resort expressed its condolences.

“We are deeply saddened by this loss, and our hearts go out to the family during this incredibly difficult time," the statement read. "We remain committed to supporting our guests and staff, prioritizing their well-being and safety, while respecting the privacy of those affected.”

The devastating news was first shared in a joint statement by Brett and Jessica Gardner on Sunday via the New York Yankees’ X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, account.

“With heavy hearts we are saddened to announce the passing of our youngest son, Miller,” the couple wrote. “He was 14 years old and has left us far too soon after falling ill along with several other family members while on vacation.”

They added that while they were left with “so many questions and so few answers,” their son “passed away peacefully in his sleep on the morning of Friday, March 21st.”

Miller, described by his parents as a vibrant and passionate young teen, had a zest for life and an unwavering love for sports and the outdoors. “Miller was a beloved son and brother and we cannot yet comprehend our life without his infectious smile. He loved football, baseball, golf, hunting, fishing, his family and his friends," they said. "He lived life to the fullest every single day.”

The couple, who married in 2007 and have another child, said they are leaning on faith and family to endure what they called an “unimaginable loss.”

“Please respect our wishes for privacy as we mourn and search for healing,” they concluded.

Miller’s sudden passing has sent shockwaves through both the baseball community and beyond, with fans, teammates, and fellow players offering messages of support and condolences.

The Yankees said in the statement that the organization is "filled with grief" after learning of Miller's death.

"Words feel insignificant and insufficient in trying to describe such an unimaginable loss. It wasn't just Brett who literally grew up in this organization for more than 17 years, so did his wife, Jessica, and their two boys, Hunter and Miller," the team said in their statement, per ESPN. "We grieve with Brett, Jessica, Hunter, and their community of family and friends in mourning the loss of Miller, who had a spark in his eyes, an outgoing and feisty personality, and a warm and loving nature. Our love for the Gardner family is unconditional and absolute, and we will offer our enduring support while understanding their desire for privacy at this time."

The Yankees concluded, "May Miller rest in peace."

Brett Gardner spent 14 seasons with the Yankees from 2008 to 2021 and was a key member of their 2009 World Series championship team.

He earned American League All-Star honors in 2015 and took home a Gold Glove Award in 2016.

The Yankees will open their 2025 MLB season at Yankee Stadium on Thursday with a matchup against the Milwaukee Brewers.