The MLB community is mourning Miller Gardner's passing.
The son of former New York Yankees outfielder Brett Gardner, Miller, aged 14, died during a holiday in Costa Rica. According to the local authorities, carbon monoxide poisoning is now confirmed as the reason.
Costa Rica's Judicial Investigation Agency (OIJ) initially suspected asphyxiation caused by food poisoning after the family reported discomfort after eating dinner. That line of investigation, though, was eventually abandoned upon further forensic study, toxicology later indicating a 64% level of carboxyhemoglobin in Miller's system, well above the 50% that was determined lethal.
From Food Illness to Fatal Poisoning
According to a report by CNN, the Gardner family had eaten at another hotel the night before, Thursday evening, in Manuel Antonio, a charming town on Costa Rica's Pacific coast. Shortly after returning to their hotel, the whole family suffered stomach upset and reported to the doctor for medical attention.
A hotel physician treated their stomach upset, but unfortunately, Miller was found unresponsive the next morning.
While the early indicators had suggested food poisoning, Juan Pablo Alvarado García, an OIJ spokesperson, made it clear that no physical blockages were detected in Miller's airway. This eliminated asphyxiation and brought carbon monoxide into focus as the actual culprit.
Hotel Under Scrutiny as Investigation Deepens
Reacting to the disaster, the hotel issued a condolence statement and vowed the fullest possible assistance to the authorities.
"We are deeply saddened by this loss, and our hearts go out to the family during this incredibly difficult time," the statement read. "The factors that led to this tragic incident are unknown, and we are fully cooperating with authorities as they investigate.
Police have started viewing security tapes, interviewing hotel employees, and making arrangements to question the Gardner family virtually as they have now returned to the United States. The hotel physician has already testified to officials, and forensic experts are now waiting for further toxicology results to see if tainted food or another cause contributed to Miller's death.
A Life Remembered
As reported by USA Today, Brett and her wife Jessica paid tribute to their son, referring to him as "a beloved son and brother" whose smile could illuminate a room. They honored Miller's will to "live life to the fullest every single day."
Brett Gardner, a 14-year veteran of the MLB and 2009 World Series champion, retired in 2021. The tragic loss has overshadowed the baseball world, with fans, players, and former teammates sending their condolences to the bereaved family.
© Copyright 2025 Sports World News, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
