Brett Gardner’s 14-year-old son, Miller, likely had food poisoning before he tragically died while on vacation in Costa Rica last week, according to local officials.
Costa Rica’s Judicial Investigation Police (OIJ) told CNN Tuesday that the former New York Yankees player’s “whole family fell ill, likely from food poisoning from something they ate” during their stay at the Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort, a hotel in Manuel Antonio.
“We are deeply saddened by this loss, and our hearts go out to the family during this incredibly difficult time,” the resort said in a statement to the Daily Mail. “We remain committed to supporting our guests and staff, prioritizing their well-being and safety, while respecting the privacy of those affected.”
The case is still under investigation but preliminary reports suggested that Miller likely died from asphyxiation, also known as suffocation.
It’s probable the teen suffered “a possible intoxication after apparently ingesting some food,” an OIJ official told NBC on Monday.
The criminal investigations agency is still awaiting further results from the autopsy and toxicology tests to determine the exact cause of death.
Gardner and his wife, Jessica Gardner, revealed their devastating loss via the Yankee’s X account.
“With heavy hearts we are saddened to announce the passing of our youngest son, Miller,” the couple, who has been married since 2007 and share another child, said in a joint statement Sunday.
“He was 14 years old and has left us far too soon after falling ill along with several other family members while on vacation.”
The Gardners added at the time that they were left with “so many questions and so few answers at this point,” but noted that Miller “passed away peacefully in his sleep on the morning of Friday, March 21st.”
They gushed of their late son, “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 couple said they had turned to family and faith to help them “navigate this unimaginable loss.”
The Gardners concluded, “Please respect our wishes for privacy as we mourn and search for healing.”
