As officials work to return Miller Gardner’s body, authorities have revealed new details about the 14-year-old’s sudden death while traveling abroad.
According to Inside Edition, authorities in Costa Rica report that Miller Gardner, the son of former New York Yankees outfielder Brett Gardner, apparently died of asphyxiation.
Providing further details, Juan Pablo Alvarado Garcia, a spokesperson for Costa Rica’s Judicial Investigative Agency, told NBC News that the teenager likely died “after a possible intoxication after apparently ingesting some food.”
Garcia added that the cause of death remains preliminary, with officials awaiting autopsy and toxicology results to confirm the circumstances. The U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica is assisting the Gardner family in arranging the return of Miller’s body to the United States.
As reported on March 24, 2025, Brett Gardner and his wife, Jessica, announced that their son passed away in his sleep on the morning of Friday, March 21.
In a message shared by the New York Yankees on X, the Gardners expressed their grief, stating, “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.”
The statement noted that the family has “so many questions and so few answers at this point,” but confirmed that Miller’s passing was peaceful.
Miller was described as a beloved son and brother who brought joy to those around him. The statement also highlighted his passions, saying, “He loved football, baseball, golf, hunting, fishing, his family and his friends. He lived life to the fullest every single day.”
The Gardners expressed gratitude for the support they have received, adding, “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 extended their prayers to Miller’s teammates, friends, and other families who have experienced similar tragedies. The message concluded with the request, “Please respect our wishes for privacy as we mourn and search for healing.”
Following the announcement, the Yankees organization released a statement expressing their condolences to the Gardner family. “Our hearts are heavy, and the Yankees family is filled with grief after learning of the passing of Miller Gardner,” the team shared on Facebook.
The message acknowledged the Gardners’ deep connection with the Yankees, stating, “It wasn’t just Brett who literally grew up in this organization for more than 17 years — so did his wife, Jessica, and their two boys, Hunter and Miller.” The Yankees described Miller as having “a spark in his eyes, an outgoing and feisty personality, and a warm and loving nature.”
They also pledged their unwavering support for the family, saying, “Our love for the Gardner family is unconditional and absolute, and we will offer our enduring support while understanding their desire for privacy at this time. May Miller rest in peace.”
Jack Curry, a longtime commentator for the Yankees Entertainment and Sports Network, also paid tribute to Miller on X.
“My deepest condolences to Brett and Jessica Gardner on the passing of Miller, their 14-year-old son. It’s incomprehensible to even ponder what their family is going through right now. During his career, Gardner was as respected as any Yankee. Sending endless prayers,” he wrote.
Carlos Mendoza, former Yankees bench coach and current baseball manager, opened a press conference by sending his condolences while visibly emotional. “I’d like to start by sending my thoughts and prayers to Jessica and Brett Gardner on the loss of their son,” Carlos said.
He reflected on his relationship with Brett, saying, “Obviously, I had a really good relationship with him, and we’re thinking about him, along with the whole Mets organization.”
Carlos recalled playing alongside Brett in the minor leagues in 2006 and 2007, later coaching him in the majors. He also shed light on the connection between Miller and his brother, Hunter, saying, “I got to know the two boys, too, and they were pretty close.”
Miller shared his father’s passion for sports, particularly baseball. A TikTok video he posted on March 9, 2025, features a series of snapshots capturing him on the field, wearing a jersey with the number 11 — his dad’s iconic Yankees number.
With the in-lay text reading “Miss it,” the clip has now become a poignant tribute to his love for the game and Brett’s legacy, resonating deeply with those mourning his loss.
Brett’s bond with his family was evident even during his playing career. In a 2021 Q&A feature in the July issue of Yankees Magazine, he spoke about his future after baseball.
Brett expressed, “I plan to be a much more present husband and father, and also spend more time with my parents, my brother, and other family and friends who I haven’t been around much for the last 15 years.”
He also shared his interest in coaching youth baseball, a passion that now holds even greater meaning following Miller’s passing.
The Yankees community, along with the wider baseball world, continues to grieve the loss of Miller Gardner, remembering him as a bright, passionate young man who left a lasting impact on those who knew him.
