Miller Gardner, 14, passed away in his sleep while on vacation with his family in Costa Rica, his family said.
Brett Gardner’s Teenage Son Dies During Family Vacation in Costa Rica
The 14-year-old son of former New York Yankees star Brett Gardner, Miller Gardner, has tragically passed away during a family vacation in Costa Rica, authorities said Monday.
According to Costa Rica’s Judicial Investigation Agency, Miller appears to have died from asphyxiation after possibly getting sick from something he ate.
What Happened?
Miller’s body was found on Friday in a hotel room in Manuel Antonio, a popular resort area on Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast, said official Juan Pablo Alvarado Garcia.
Authorities believe his death was caused by a possible food-related intoxication, but they are still waiting for autopsy and toxicology results to confirm the cause.
Statement from Brett and Jessica Gardner:
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. We have so many… pic.twitter.com/lBCBVmKGUe
— New York Yankees (@Yankees) March 23, 2025
Family Statement
Miller’s parents released a statement on Sunday, saying that their son fell ill along with other family members before passing away peacefully in his sleep.
“Miller was a beloved son and brother, and we cannot yet comprehend our life without his infectious smile,” they said.
They described him as a boy who loved football, baseball, golf, hunting, fishing, his family, and friends and who lived life to the fullest every single day.
Brett Gardner’s Legacy
Brett Gardner, who played his entire 14-season career with the New York Yankees, was a key player in helping the team win the 2009 World Series, just one year after making his MLB debut.