Investigation Underway After Former Yankees Player’s Son Dies in Costa Rica

MANUEL ANTONIO, Costa Rica — The death of 14-year-old Miller Gardner, son of former New York Yankees outfielder Brett Gardner, is being investigated as a potential case of carbon monoxide poisoning, according to Costa Rican authorities. Gardner died on March 21 in his hotel room at the Arenas Del Mar resort while vacationing with his family.

Randall Zúñiga, director of Costa Rica’s Judicial Investigation Agency (OIJ), stated on March 31 that preliminary tests revealed toxic levels of carbon monoxide, up to 600 parts per million, in the vicinity of Gardner’s room. The safe level for carbon monoxide is zero, highlighting the seriousness of the findings.

Zúñiga explained that investigators are focusing on a nearby mechanical room, believed to contain sources of contamination. “We have initiated tests with a specialized team from the Costa Rican Fire Department, who conducted a thorough analysis of the atmosphere,” he said. The investigation is being coordinated with the FBI, which has offered support to local authorities.

The resort has expressed deep condolences to the Gardner family while maintaining that the exact cause of death remains unconfirmed. In a statement to CNN, they emphasized, “We are collaborating respectfully and diligently with the Costa Rican judicial authorities, who are overseeing the investigation. Our main priority is ensuring the safety and well-being of all our guests and staff.”

Miller’s family reported that he had felt ill before going to bed. The night prior to his death, they had dined at a local restaurant and returned to the hotel feeling unwell. When they were unable to wake Miller the following morning, a medical team was dispatched but attempts to revive him were unsuccessful.

The Gardners stated, “Miller was a beloved son and brother. We are deeply saddened by this loss and are grateful for the outpouring of support from friends and the community as we navigate this difficult time.” The family has requested privacy as they mourn their son, an honor student at Pinewood Preparatory School in Summerville, South Carolina, where he participated in football and baseball.

Brett Gardner, who played for the Yankees from 2008 to 2021 and was an All-Star and Gold Glove recipient, expressed his heartfelt sorrow to the media. “Our family is in utter shock and grief,” he stated. “We are trying to come to terms with this unimaginable tragedy.”

Investigations are ongoing as authorities await final toxicology reports to determine the confirmed cause of death. For now, the focus remains on uncovering the circumstances that led to Miller Gardner’s tragic passing.