The mystery illness that killed an MLB legend’s young son
In this DML Report…
Miller Gardner, the 14-year-old son of former New York Yankees outfielder Brett Gardner, died on March 21 while vacationing with his family at the Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort in Costa Rica. Preliminary findings from Costa Rica’s Judicial Investigation Police (OIJ) indicate the cause of death as "asphyxiation due to intoxication related to food poisoning," though an autopsy and toxicology results, expected in two to three months, are still pending to confirm this. The U.S. State Department acknowledged the death of a U.S. citizen in Costa Rica on that date and is monitoring the investigation, while the family works to repatriate Miller’s body.
The Gardner family was on a spring break trip when Miller and several others fell ill, with Brett and Jessica Gardner reporting that their son passed away peacefully in his sleep. The OIJ initially considered asphyxiation due to vomit found with the body, but forensic analysis later ruled out airway obstruction, shifting focus to food poisoning as the likely trigger. The USDA defines food intoxication as illness from toxins released by pathogens, distinct from bacterial foodborne illness, with severe cases potentially leading to respiratory failure or paralysis—outcomes that align with Miller’s sudden death.
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Brett Gardner, 41, a 14-year MLB veteran who helped the Yankees win the 2009 World Series, and his wife Jessica announced the tragedy on March 23 via the Yankees’ social media, noting Miller’s love for sports and family. The resort expressed condolences and is cooperating with authorities, who have not identified the specific food source. The Yankees organization and former teammates, including Aaron Boone and Joe Girardi, voiced support, while the investigation continues as of March 25, leaving open questions about the exact circumstances of this rare but deadly incident.