Miller Gardner, 14, son of former New York Yankees outfielder Brett Gardner, has died and many are left asking questions. Costa Rican National Police have ruled out asphyxiation as the cause of death after finding his airway was clear. This comes one day after a preliminary report said he died from “food intoxication”.
What Happened to Miller Gardner?
Miller Gardner died in his sleep Friday morning while the family was on vacation in Costa Rica. A source close to the investigation says the Gardner family got sick after dinner at a restaurant near their resort, the exclusive Arenas Del Mar Resort in Manuel Antonio.
“The hotel staff sent a medical team, including a doctor, to the room immediately,” the resort told ABC News.
But the resort said its policy is not to give any medication to guests. Investigators are now looking into whether Miller had an allergic reaction to any medication given during the emergency response.
Autopsy Findings and Investigation
Asphyxiation has been ruled out but the cause of death is still unknown. The autopsy is not complete and authorities warn it could take up to 3 months to finish due to high demand in Costa Rica, a country with a high murder rate.
“We are devastated by this loss and our hearts go out to the family,” an Arenas Del Mar Resort spokesperson said in an earlier statement. “The factors that led to this tragic incident are unknown and we are fully cooperating with the authorities.”
Police from Quepos are leading the investigation and will be questioning hotel employees as part of their probe. At this time they do not believe the death to be suspicious but are leaving no stone unturned.
A Family in Shock
Brett and Jessica Gardner described their youngest son as a beloved son and brother whose smile could light up a room. In a statement released by the Yankees, the grieving parents said:
“We have so many questions and so few answers at this point,” the Gardners said. “Miller was a beloved son and brother and we can’t even begin to imagine life without his smile. He lived life to the fullest every day.”
The family got sick along with several others but details of their condition are scarce.
A Legacy of Love
Brett Gardner played his entire 14 year MLB career with the New York Yankees, retiring after the 2021 season. A 2015 All-Star and 2016 Gold Glove winner, he was also part of the 2009 World Series championship team. Beyond his on field accomplishments Gardner and his family were beloved within the organization.
“Our hearts are heavy and the Yankees family is grieving,” the team said in a statement. “It wasn’t just Brett who grew up in this organization for more than 17 years—so did his wife Jessica and their two boys Hunter and Miller.”
“Our love for the Gardner family is unconditional and absolute and we will support them forever.”
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