While the cause of Miller Gardner’s death is still unknown, Costa Rican authorities are now investigating a new theory for why the son of Yankees champion Brett Gardner passed away during a family vacation in the Central American country.
It was initially reported that Miller, 14, died by asphyxia after eating. CNN was later told by Costa Rica’s OIJ (Judicial Investigation Police) that asphyxia had been ruled out, as there was no obstruction of the teen’s airway.
Now, ABC News has reported that authorities are investigating whether Miller was allergic to any medicine he was given.
The family reportedly felt sick after returning to their resort from dinner on Thursday night.
While the family meal did not occur at the Arenas Del Mar resort where they were staying, the resort told ABC that a licensed doctor was dispatched to ‘handle the emergency situation.’
‘Our hotel protocol at Arenas Del Mar does not allow for hotel staff to provide any medication to guests,’ the resort added.
Ex-Yankees star Brett Gardner’s son Miller died while the family were on vacation in Costa Rica
Miller Gardner (second right) died over the weekend, his parents Brett and Jessica announced
It is believed that an autopsy could take two or three months to be completed.
Furthermore, police from the nearby town of Quepos are the ones leading the investigation, and reportedly began questioning resort employees on Tuesday.
Miller and his family were staying at the $900 per night Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort when he was found dead on Friday morning.
Earlier on Tuesday, the hotel said to DailyMail.Com in a statement : ‘We are deeply saddened by this loss, and our hearts go out to the family during this incredibly difficult time.
‘The factors that led to this tragic incident are unknown, and we are fully cooperating with authorities as they investigate.
‘We remain committed to supporting our guests and staff, prioritizing their well-being and safety, while respecting the privacy of those affected.’
The exclusive resort where Miller died is located in the rainforest town of Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica.
In announcing their son’s death over the weekend, Miller’s parents Brett and Jessica acknowledged that they had ‘so many questions’ regarding his tragic passing.
The family was staying at the luxurious Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort
Gardner spent his entire Major League Baseball career as an outfielder with the Yankees
‘With heavy hearts we are saddened to announce the passing of our youngest son, Miller,’ they 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.’
They continued: ‘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.’
Gardner, 41, played 14 seasons with the Yankees between 2008 and 2021 and was part of their 2009 World Series-winning team, also earning an All-Star selection in 2015.
The outfielder spent his entire career in pinstripes and was highly respected within the organization, who have offered their condolences to his family.