Costa Rica’s Ministry of Health has launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Miller Gardner’s death, Us Weekly can confirm.
The country’s Minister of Health, Mary Munive Angermüller, tells Us that the organization is looking into the death of New York Yankees alum Brett Gardner’s 14-year-old son after he suffered carbon monoxide inhalation.
Miller’s cause of death had been ruled as carbon monoxide poisoning, per an official report from the Judicial Investigation Agency (OIJ).
“In response to inquiries about this case, the Ministry of Health is currently gathering information and carrying out the necessary procedures,” a Friday, April 4, statement reads. “For this reason, no further details can be provided at this time. However, once the facts are clarified, more information will be released.”
Miller, the youngest son of Brett and wife Jessica Gardner, died in March during the family’s trip to Costa Rica. (The married couple also share eldest son Hunter.)
“With heavy hearts, we are saddened to announce the passing of our youngest son, Miller. He was 14 years old and has left us far too soon after falling ill along with several other family members while on vacation,” Brett, 41, and Jessica, wrote in a statement shared via the New York Yankees’ X account on March 23. “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.”
They added, “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.”
Brett, who played his entire career with the Yankees before his 2021 retirement, and Jessica further noted their gratitude for fan support after Miller’s passing.
“We are so thankful to all who have reached out to offer support and encouragement during this difficult time and we are confident our faith, family, and friends will help us navigate this unimaginable loss,” Brett and Jessica concluded their statement. “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 as we share their grief.”
News broke weeks later that carbon monoxide had been found in Miller’s room, which the hotel refuted in a statement to Us.
“We understand the concern has grown and to clarify the high levels of carbon monoxide were in a mechanical room that guests do not occupy,” Dana Cohen, a spokesperson for the Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort, said in an April 1 statement. “The levels in the hotel room were non-existent and non-lethal. There was an error in this initial reporting. As mentioned, we await for conclusive results to confirm the cause of this unfortunate death.”