Authorities are continuing to investigate 14-year-old Miller Gardner’s cause of death as questions continue to arise.
Brett Gardner, a former player for the New York Yankees, along with his family, was vacationing at the Arenas Del Mar Beachfront and Rainforest Resort in Costa Rica when Miller was discovered deceased. According to a report by ABC News on Tuesday, March 25, an autopsy is pending and any information regarding Miller’s passing is provisional.
ABC News disclosed that based on information from a source, the family reportedly fell ill after having dinner at a restaurant close to the resort on Thursday, March 19. Authorities are currently investigating the possibility of an allergic reaction to medication, as per the report.
Miller was found dead in his hotel room on the morning of Friday, March 21.
A statement given to ABC News by Arenas Del Mar mentioned, “The hotel staff promptly sent a medical team, including a licensed doctor, to manage the emergency.” The statement further clarified that their hotel policy prohibits staff from administering any medication to guests.
A preliminary cause of death released on Monday, March 24, ruled that Miller died from asphyxia “after a possible intoxication after apparently ingesting some food.” However, the Costa Rica Judicial Investigative Agency (OIJ) has since confirmed to Us Weekly that asphyxia has been ruled out entirely since Miller’s airways appeared to be unobstructed. His death is now believed to be the result of food poisoning, but officials are still waiting on the results of a toxicology report.
Brett, 41, and his wife, Jessica Gardner, released a statement following the death of their youngest son. (The couple is also parents to 16-year-old son Hunter.)
“With heavy hearts we are saddened to announce the passing of our youngest son, Miller,” they shared on Sunday, March 23. “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 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.”
The statement continued, “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 Yankees organization also released a statement regarding the news. (Brett played as an outfielder on the team for 14 seasons.)
“Words feel insignificant and insufficient in trying to describe such an unimaginable loss,” the statement read, in part. “Our love for the Gardner family is unconditional and absolute, and we will offer our enduring support while understanding their desire for privacy at this time. May Miller rest in peace.”
