Local officials in Costa Rica are still examining the nature surrounding Miller Gardner’s sudden death at 14.
“At this time, and as the case is under investigation, pending the results of the autopsy, no details can be provided,” the Judicial Investigation Organism exclusively told Us Weekly in a Saturday, March 29, statement.
Miller, one of the sons of former New York Yankees player Brett Gardner, died on March 21 during the family’s trip to Costa Rica.
“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,” Gardner, 41, and his wife, Jessica, wrote in a statement shared via the Yankees’ X account earlier this month. “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.”
They added, “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.”
The former MLB outfielder and his wife, who also share son Hunter, further thanked social media followers for their support.
“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,” the couple concluded their statement. “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.”
Miller’s preliminary cause of death was ruled as asphyxia before investigators later clarified that the teenager’s airway had not been obstructed. It is also possible that Miller died after a bout of food poisoning.
The Gardners were staying at the Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort, and representatives for the hotel have since confirmed to Us that staffers did not provide Miller and his relatives any medication during their stay.
“We have information that he and several family members had gastrointestinal symptoms, that’s what I can tell you about it,” Kevin Gannon, the medical coordinator at the Manuel Antonio Private Emergency Clinic, told Us. “Only a microbiology lab could determine the causes, whether a gastrointestinal illness is caused by a microorganism, an infection or some other condition the patient has. There are multiple causes.”
When Us visited the Hotel Arenas, a team of more than six Judicial Investigation Agency (OIJ) agents were seen entering the building. These teams are considered to be the highest body investigating suspicious deaths, murders and homicides in the country.
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