Authorities rule out preliminary cause of death for ex-Yankee Brett Gardner’s teen son
UPDATE: “It was preliminarily ruled out that the cause of death was due to asphyxia, due to the fact that at the time of the inspection of the body, no anomaly was observed at macro level in the respiratory tract,” Juan Pablo Alvarado Garcia, an official with Costa Rica’s Judicial Investigation Agency, shared in a new March 25 statement, NBC News reports.
“The case is under investigation by the agents of the Quepos and Parrita Subdelegation of the OIJ and at the moment it is being handled as a death under investigation.”
The original story is below.
New details surrounding the death of former Yankees outfielder Brett Gardner’s son have been revealed.
On Sunday, March 23, Brett Gardner and his wife Jessica Gardner shared a statement via the Yankees’ X account announcing their 14-year-old son Miller Gardner’s death.
According to the family, Miller Gardner had been on vacation when he died in his sleep.
Now, NBC News reports that Miller Gardner “apparently died by asphyxia ‘after a possible intoxication after apparently ingesting some food,’” according to Juan Pablo Alvarado Garcia, an official with Costa Rica’s Judicial Investigation Agency.
Garcia continued, confirming Miller Gardner’s body was found Friday, March 21, in his hotel room.
Miller Gardner’s toxicology and autopsy results are still being processed, NBC reported.
In the statement shared on the New York Yankees X account, Brett and Jessica Gardner said they “have so many questions and so few answers at this point.”
“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 continued.
“Miller was a beloved son and brother and we cannot yet comprehend our life without his infectious smile,” the parents continued in their original statement.
“He loved football, baseball, golf, hunting, fishing, his family and his friends. He lived life to the fullest every single day.”
“We are so thankful to all who have reached out to offer support and encouragement during this difficult time and we are confident our faith, family, and friends will help us navigate this unimaginable loss.”
“Our prayers go out to Miller’s teammates and friends, as well as to all other families who have lost a child far too soon as we share their grief,” Brett and Jessica Gardner concluded their statement. “Please respect our wishes for privacy as we mourn and search for healing.”
This story was originally published March 25, 2025 at 9:59 AM.