Tragic Loss: Brett Gardner's Son Dies from Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

In a heartbreaking revelation, the case of Miller Gardner, the 14-year-old son of former New York Yankees player Brett Gardner, was confirmed as a tragic accident caused by carbon monoxide poisoning. The Judicial Investigation Agency (OIJ) of Costa Rica announced on Wednesday that a toxicology report indicated carbon monoxide inhalation was the direct cause of death, with carboxyhemoglobin saturation levels reaching a life-threatening 64% at the time of analysis.

Miller was discovered unresponsive in his hotel room at the Arenas Del Mar resort on March 21, during a family vacation in Costa Rica. OIJ director Randall Zúñiga disclosed that such high levels of carboxyhemoglobin are often fatal, emphasizing the dangers of carbon monoxide exposure. “In this particular case, it was a scientifically-grounded investigation that led us to uncover the truth,” Zúñiga stated. During the autopsy, medical examiners observed distinctive markers in the organs typically associated with carbon monoxide fatalities.

Preliminary assumptions about the cause of Miller's death had earlier speculated it might be linked to asphyxiation resulting from food poisoning—a theory ultimately dismissed after further investigation. It was noted that other family members had reported feeling ill prior to Miller's tragic discovery.

Authorities are looking into a machine room adjacent to their hotel room, suspected of containing hazardous contaminants that could have contributed to this unfortunate event. The resort has expressed its condolences to the Gardner family but initially remained cautious regarding the definitive cause of death.

Brett Gardner and his wife Jessica shared in their grief, stating, “Miller left us far too soon after falling ill along with several other family members while on vacation. He was a beloved son and brother, and we cannot yet comprehend our life without his infectious smile. He enjoyed every moment to the fullest—whether it was football, baseball, golf, hunting, fishing, or simply cherishing time with family and friends.”

Brett Gardner had a stellar 14-season career with the Yankees, culminating in a World Series title in 2009, before retiring after the 2021 season. This unimaginable loss is a stark reminder of the fragile nature of life, leaving the community and his family in mourning during this difficult time.

In light of this tragedy, experts urge travelers to be aware of the risks associated with carbon monoxide—often dubbed the "silent killer" due to its colorless, odorless nature—and to ensure that hotel accommodations are equipped with functional carbon monoxide detectors for safety.