The tragic loss of Miller Gardner, the 14-year-old son of former Yankees star Brett Gardner, has taken a heartbreaking new twist as Costa Rican authorities now suggest that a potential allergic reaction to medication might have contributed to his sudden death.
This revelation comes after an initial report indicated that Miller passed away from asphyxia while on a family vacation in the Central American country.
Costa Rican Authorities Reopen Investigation
In a surprising development, Costa Rican authorities have revised their original findings.
Initially, it was reported that Miller died from asphyxia, believed to have occurred after eating during a family dinner.
However, the Judicial Investigation Police (OIJ) later confirmed that asphyxia was no longer considered the cause of death, as no obstruction was found in Miller’s airway.
Instead, authorities are now exploring whether Miller may have had an allergic reaction to any medication he had been given.
Reports suggest that Miller and his family felt unwell after returning to their resort from dinner on Thursday night, which was not held at the Arenas Del Mar resort where they were staying.
The resort promptly dispatched a licensed doctor to address the emergency, though the exact cause of Miller’s illness remains unclear.
The resort maintains that its protocol prohibits staff from administering medication to guests, and the investigation continues.
Resort’s Role and Hotel Protocol
The Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort, where Miller and his family were staying at $900 per night, has been cooperating fully with the investigation.
Resort representatives expressed their sadness over the tragic event and extended their condolences to the grieving family.
“We are deeply saddened by this loss,” a hotel spokesperson said.
“Our hearts go out to the family during this incredibly difficult time.
We are fully cooperating with authorities as they investigate the factors that led to this tragic incident.”
Authorities from the nearby town of Quepos have been leading the investigation, and as of Tuesday, they began questioning resort employees to gather further details.
An autopsy is expected to take several months before providing definitive answers.
The Gardner Family’s Heartbreak and Continued Questions
Miller’s parents, Brett and Jessica Gardner, expressed their devastation in a statement over the weekend.
They acknowledged the deep emotional pain of losing their youngest son and admitted that they had “so many questions” regarding the circumstances of his passing.
“With heavy hearts we are saddened to announce the passing of our youngest son, Miller,” the family said.
“He was 14 years old and has left us far too soon after falling ill along with several other family members while on vacation.”
Despite the unanswered questions, the family confirmed that Miller passed away peacefully in his sleep on the morning of Friday, March 21st.
Brett Gardner’s Legacy and the Family’s Loss
Brett Gardner, 41, had a distinguished career with the New York Yankees, playing for 14 seasons between 2008 and 2021.
He was a key player in the Yankees’ 2009 World Series-winning team and earned an All-Star selection in 2015.
The Yankees organization has extended their condolences to Brett and his family during this incredibly difficult time, mourning alongside them as they face the unimaginable loss of their son.
The investigation into Miller’s tragic death is ongoing, and while the cause remains unclear, the family’s hope for answers continues to grow as they navigate this devastating chapter.