Tragic Loss: Miller Gardner, Son of Ex-Yankees Star, Dies from Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Costa Rican authorities have confirmed that Miller Gardner, the son of former New York Yankees player Brett Gardner, succumbed to carbon monoxide poisoning during a family trip. This heartbreaking incident occurred while the Gardners were staying at a resort last month.

Miller Gardner, only 14, passed away unexpectedly in March while vacationing in Costa Rica with his family, the Costa Rica Judicial Investigation Agency reported. Toxicology results revealed that he had exceedingly high levels of carboxyhemoglobin—64 percent saturation indicative of carbon monoxide poisoning—well above the lethal threshold of 50 percent.

The family had been vacationing in Manuel Antonio, a popular resort area on Costa Rica's central Pacific Coast. After Miller fell ill, he died peacefully in his sleep on March 21, alongside several other relatives who also experienced health issues during the trip.

Randall Zúñiga, director of the Judicial Investigation Agency in Costa Rica, stated that additional tests confirmed the absence of drugs and indicated signs of carbon monoxide on his organs. The family's room at the resort was located near machinery, raising concerns about potential contamination from the adjacent area.

The family formed a close bond over sports, love for nature, and cherished time spent together. Brett Gardner, who played for the Yankees from 2008 to 2021, expressed the loss in a statement highlighting Miller's passions for football, baseball, golf, and spending time with loved ones.

In his major league career, Gardner was renowned for his speed on the field, leading the league in stolen bases in 2011 and triples in 2013, and he was part of the Yankees' 2009 World Series team. He remains an influential figure in baseball and is remembered for his dedication to the sport.

Miller’s death has resonated deeply within the community, with many expressing condolences for the Gardner family during this tragic time.