Retired Yankees star Brett Gardner's 14-year-old son Miller's cause of death revealed
QUEPOS, COSTA RICA: Local officials investigating the death of Miller Gardner, son of former New York Yankees star outfielder Brett Gardner, suggested that the 14-year-old died of asphyxiation after eating, NBC News reported on Monday, March 24.
Miller was at the Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest resort in Manuel Antonio, a tourist hotspot on the Pacific Coast, with several members of his family when he fell severely ill. His body was discovered inside a hotel room on March 21.
What is the cause of Miller Gardner's death?
Juan Pablo Alvarado Garcia, an official with Costa Rica’s Judicial Investigation Agency, told NBC News that Miller apparently died by asphyxia "after a possible intoxication after apparently ingesting some food."
Statement from Brett and Jessica Gardner:
— New York Yankees (@Yankees) March 23, 2025
With heavy hearts we are saddened to announce the passing of our youngest son, Miller. He was 14 years old and has left us far too soon after falling ill along with several other family members while on vacation. We have so many… pic.twitter.com/lBCBVmKGUe
He added that the cause of death is preliminary, and investigators are awaiting reports of an autopsy and a toxicology analysis.
The officials are currently working with the Gardner family to bring Miller's body back to the United States. The US State Department confirmed to the New York Post that they were closely monitoring the investigation into Miller's death undertaken by the Costa Rican authorities.
“Out of respect for the privacy of the family and loved ones during this difficult time, we have no further comment at this time,” added the department.
Brett Gardner's statement on his son Miller's death
Since retiring from the NFL, Brett Gardner, 41, has been living with his family in South Carolina. He and his wife Jessica shared a statement upon their youngest son's death that read, "We have so many questions and so few answers at this point, but we do know that he passed away peacefully in his sleep on the morning of Friday, March 21st."
“Miller was a beloved son and brother and we cannot yet comprehend our life without his infectious smile. He loved football, baseball, golf, hunting, fishing, his family and his friends. He lived life to the fullest every single day," they continued.
“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,” the couple stated.
