The teenage son of former New York Yankees star Brett Gardner appears to have died by asphyxiation after possibly having gotten sick from eating something during a family vacation in Costa Rica. Authorities in the Central American country revealed that Miller Gardner, 14, died in his sleep on March 21, 2025. Miller was vacationing with his family at the upscale Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest resort in Manuel Antonio when he suddenly fell ill along with several family members. Local investigators believe that the cause of death may have resulted from food ingestion that led to intoxication.
In a statement shared by the family on March 23, Brett Gardner and his wife, Jessica, expressed their grief. “We have so many questions and so few answers at this point, but we do know that he passed away peacefully in his sleep,” they said. The Gardners further emphasized their immense love for Miller, stating, “Miller was a beloved son and brother and we cannot yet comprehend our life without his infectious smile.” They shared how he loved sports, family, and friends, and lived life to the fullest each day.
The U.S. State Department confirmed the news to ABC News, stating, “We can confirm the death of a U.S. citizen in Costa Rica on March 21. We are closely monitoring local authorities’ investigation into the cause of death.” The specific details regarding the family's location at the time of the tragedy remain under wraps to respect their privacy as they navigate this unimaginable loss.
Investigations by Costa Rican authorities suggest that Miller may have died due to asphyxiation after ingesting food that led to severe intoxication. Officials are awaiting further results from an autopsy and toxicology analysis to confirm the preliminary cause of death. Among those, Juan Pablo Alvarado Garcia, an official with Costa Rica’s Judicial Investigative Agency, remarked on the tragic incident and natural inquiries surrounding it, emphasizing the ongoing investigation.
One day following the announcement of Miller’s death, the Yankees organization issued an outpouring of support for the Gardner family. “Words feel insignificant and insufficient in trying to describe such an unimaginable loss,” the statement read. The team acknowledged the connection that both Brett and Jessica Gardner have forged with the franchise over the years. “It wasn’t just Brett who literally grew up in this organization for more than 17 years — so did his wife, Jessica, and their two boys, Hunter and Miller.”
Gardner, a beloved figure in the Yankees organization, retired after a 14-season career that included winning a World Series in 2009 and earning the Golden Glove Award in 2016. His impact on and off the field resonates with many fans, making the news of his son's passing particularly poignant. The Gardners have been married since 2007 and reside in South Carolina, where they raised their two sons, Miller and Hunter.
Miller was known for his vibrant spirit and outgoing nature, which led many to recall the young boy’s zest for life. Memories poured in from teammates and friends who were touched by his personality. Gardner’s former minor league teammate and Mets manager, Carlos Mendoza, expressed heartfelt sentiment as he recalled Miller. “I had a really good relationship with [Gardner] and we’re thinking about him,” Mendoza commented, showcasing a community united in mourning.
In the wake of Miller's unexpected death, questions regarding food safety and public health have emerged, as incidents of food intoxication are known but often not extensively covered in media. According to the Mayo Clinic, food intoxication can be caused by consuming items contaminated with bacteria, viruses, or parasites. Symptoms can vary, posing significant health risks. With the ongoing investigation, authorities and health officials strive to uncover all necessary insights into what transpired during the Gardner family's stay in Costa Rica.
As Costa Rican authorities work to complete the necessary investigations, they acknowledge the family’s dire circumstances and have offered condolences. “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,” the Gardner family noted in their statement, underlining the vast impact such a loss represents. The heartache and communal grief speak volumes about the preciousness of life and the cherished moments that often go unappreciated.
The narrative surrounding Miller Gardner’s death embodies a mixture of sorrow and reflection on the fragility of life. As investigations continue, many hope to find answers not only for the Gardner family but also for others concerned about health inequalities and food safety measures while traveling. The pain felt by Brett and Jessica Gardner will resonate deeply within their community as they navigate their grief in the spotlight.
In this time of agony, the love for Miller continues to shine through, and the support from family, fans, and the wider community reflects the connection forged through memory and tributes. “May Miller rest in peace,” the Yankees' statement concluded poignantly, echoing the sentiments of countless others affected by this tragedy.
