Quote from Oladosun Joshua Segun on March 26, 2025, 8:52 PM

The baseball world was shaken up when Miller Gardner, the 14-year-old son of former New York Yankees star Brett Gardner, passed away unexpectedly. Brett Gardner was a beloved figure in New York, known for his hustle and dedication on the field. Now, everyone's wondering what happened to his son.

Miller Gardner was in Costa Rica when he passed. Costa Rica is a popular spot for tourists, known for its beautiful beaches, rainforests, and wildlife. People often go there for surfing, zip-lining, and exploring nature.

Right now, the exact circumstances around Miller's death are unclear. We know that Costa Rican authorities are investigating. It's important to avoid guessing what happened and stick to the facts. Details will come out as the investigation moves forward.

The Gardner family is going through an unimaginable loss. They haven't released many statements, which is understandable. It's a tough time for them, and their privacy should be respected. Any official updates will likely come through their representatives.

Costa Rican authorities are working hard to figure out what happened. Here's what we know about the official investigation.

An autopsy was supposed to be performed, but the results could take "at least two to three months." Why such a long wait? Well, these things take time. Standard procedures involve detailed analysis and testing.

“We're having a hike in homicides as these drug gangs battle for territory,” Costa Rica's Judicial Investigation Agency (JIA) spokesperson Juan Pablo Alvarado Garcia shared, “and every one of them needs an autopsy.”

He added, “I can confirm that an autopsy has been carried out on Miller, but the full analysis and results, as in every one of them, will take at least two to three months due to these constant killings causing a backlog of cases. That's the reality.”

Though the results will be delayed, the official explained that, since “all the samples necessary” had been taken for Miller’s autopsy, his body “can be repatriated to the United States,” however, Brett who also shares son Hunter Gardner, 16, with Jessica and his family have been held up as the U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica processes their request to bring Miller home.

However, amid the investigation into the teen’s death, officials have shared insight into the final hours before his body were discovered on March 21. 

These details include that the Gardner family visited a restaurant outside of the Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort, where they were staying, and that they were subsequently treated by hotel medical staff after experiencing severe stomach cramps, vomiting and diarrhea upon their return to the resort, Alvarado Garcia confirmed. The spokesperson also noted that food samples were taken from the restaurant where the family had eaten.

It's not totally clear if U.S. authorities are directly involved. But they might offer help or guidance. International investigations can get tricky, with legal frameworks and protocols in place. Cooperation between countries is key in situations like these.

After Costa Rican officials revealed March 24 that Miller’s preliminary cause of death was asphyxiation after ingesting a toxic substance, the agency has since reversed course and are continuing their investigation.

“It was preliminarily ruled out that the cause of death was due to asphyxia,” Alvarado Garcia shared in a March 25 statement, “due to the fact that at the time of the inspection of the body, no anomaly was observed at macro level in the respiratory tract.”

He continued, "Was it a medicine they gave him that triggered something? Or was it an underlying condition he had that was triggered by what he ate or the medicine they gave him? We won’t know until we know all of the results from the tests.” 

Investigators are likely exploring all possible causes. It's important not to jump to conclusions. They could be looking into natural causes, accidents, or other factors. We'll need to wait for the official report to know for sure.

As Brett and Jessica shared the news of their son’s passing in a heartbreaking March 23 statement, they also paid tribute to his life.

"Miller was a beloved son and brother and we cannot yet comprehend our life without his infectious smile,” they said in the note shared to the New York Yankees’ social media accounts. “He loved football, baseball, golf, hunting, fishing, his family and his friends. He lived life to the fullest every single day."

Gardner played for the Yankees for 14 seasons. He was known for his speed, defense, and never-give-up attitude. A World Series ring, Gold Glove Award, and All-Star selection are just a few of his achievements. He was a fan favorite.

While we mostly knew Brett Gardner as a player, he was also a family man. Publicly available information paints a picture of a dedicated father. He often spoke about his kids. It's, clear family was important to him.

The news of Miller Gardner's passing has resonated throughout the baseball community. The New York Yankees released a statement expressing their sadness. They offered their support to the Gardner family. The organization is mourning along with everyone else.

Social media has been flooded with messages of support and sympathy. Players, fans, and other figures in the sports world are sharing their condolences. The outpouring of love shows how much the Gardners are cared for.

There are many organizations that offer help to families dealing with loss. Groups like the National Alliance for Children’s Grief and the Dougy Center provide counseling and support. These resources can make a big difference.

Grief is a process, not an event. It’s okay to feel a range of emotions. Talking to someone, taking care of yourself, and allowing yourself to grieve are important. Don't be afraid to ask for help.

The sudden loss of Miller Gardner is heartbreaking. The Costa Rican investigation is ongoing. Hopefully it will bring answers and closure for the family. During this difficult time, it's important to respect the Gardner family's privacy. We hope for a thorough and transparent investigation.