Investigation Continues into Death of Brett Gardner's Son in Costa Rica

SAN JOSE, Costa Rica -- Authorities in Costa Rica have announced that asphyxiation has been ruled out as the cause of death for Miller Gardner, the 14-year-old son of former New York Yankees outfielder Brett Gardner. The teenager tragically passed away on Friday while on vacation with his family at a hotel in Manuel Antonio, located along Costa Rica's Central Pacific coast.

According to the Costa Rican Judicial Investigation Agency, the incident occurred after the Gardner family dined outside the hotel on Thursday evening. Upon returning, family members began experiencing symptoms of illness. They initially sought medical assistance from the hotel's physician.

Sadly, the following morning, a family member discovered Miller without vital signs, prompting an immediate alert to local authorities. The investigation has since commenced, focusing on determining the specific cause of death.

The agency reported that while initial speculation pointed to asphyxiation, a subsequent autopsy conducted by the Forensic Pathology Section has dismissed this theory. The autopsy revealed no abnormalities in the respiratory tract. Authorities have since forwarded samples for further histological, toxicological, and neuropathological analysis to forensic laboratories, as well as a study at the Costa Rican Institute for Research and Teaching in Nutrition and Health (INCIENSA) at the University of Costa Rica.

The investigation remains active, and officials expect it may take two to three months to reach definitive conclusions regarding the circumstances surrounding Miller Gardner's death.

Brett Gardner, now 41, was drafted by the Yankees in 2005 and enjoyed a lengthy career with the team, spanning 14 seasons. During his time in Major League Baseball, he achieved a .256 batting average, hitting 139 home runs and recording 578 RBIs along with 274 stolen bases.