The sudden passing of Miller Gardner, the 14-year-old son of former New York Yankees player Brett Gardner, has prompted an ongoing investigation by Costa Rican authorities. Randall Zuniga, director of the Judicial Investigation Department (OIJ), made an official announcement during a press conference on Monday.

Preliminary Findings

According to OIJ representatives, preliminary assessments suggest that Miller’s death may not have resulted from foul play. Zuniga noted that the death is being examined in collaboration with the FBI. Investigators are focusing on carbon monoxide as a potential cause following Miller’s discovery in a hotel room plagued by high levels of the gas.

Initial reviews found carbon monoxide levels reaching up to 600 parts per million in the area where the family was staying, significantly higher than the acceptable level of zero. Zuniga indicated that samples had been taken from the family’s accommodation, which was adjacent to a machine room believed to be responsible for the contamination.

Health Concerns Raised

Prior to his death, Miller was reported to have been unwell along with multiple other families during their vacation. The U.S. Embassy and State Department confirmed the death of a U.S. citizen in Costa Rica, but specifics on the cause were initially limited. Zuniga shared that choking had been ruled out, revealing that Miller’s air passages were clear, though there were indications of vomiting.

Further investigations will examine whether exposure to carbon monoxide contributed to these symptoms, which led to his untimely demise. Information is also being gathered about the family’s last meals to assess food safety, as Miller mentioned to investigators that he had experienced food-related illness after dining at a local restaurant.

Family Respects Privacy

Following the tragedy, Brett Gardner and his wife, Jessica, issued a statement expressing their grief over their son’s death, which they made public through the Yankees organization. They have requested privacy during this challenging time, and the U.S. State Department reiterated their commitment to respecting the family’s wishes while the investigation continues.

Miller Gardner’s Legacy

Miller Gardner was a dedicated high school soccer player in South Carolina, wearing the number 11 to honor his father’s athletic legacy. Brett Gardner, a prominent member of the Yankees’ 2009 championship team, retired in 2021, leaving behind a storied career and a close-knit family profoundly affected by this loss.