The cause of death for the teenager was initially stated to be asphyxiation after consuming some food. However, Costa Rican authorities confirmed to PEOPLE that asphyxiation has been ruled out as the reason for Miller Gardner’s death, the 14-year-old son of New York Yankees player Brett Gardner and his wife Jessica Gardner.
While it was earlier stated that the 41-year-old New York Yankees player’s teenage son had died from asphyxiation “following potential intoxication from supposedly consuming some food,” officials now assert that this is inaccurate.
As stated by Juan Pablo Alvarado Garcia, an official with Costa Rica’s Judicial Investigation Agency, following a meeting with a medic from the Forensic Pathology Section of the agency, the earlier determination of asphyxiation as the cause of death in Miller’s case has been dismissed.
The initial verdict excluded asphyxiation as the cause of death. “Garcia stated that there were no visible macro-level abnormalities in the respiratory tract during the body examination.”
Specimens have been dispatched to histology, toxicology, and neuropathology laboratories for additional analysis, with results anticipated in two to three months. The situation continues to be treated as a death under investigation.
The teenage son of the MLB athlete passed away while on a family vacation in Costa Rica on Friday, March 21.
Earlier this week, on Monday, March 24, Garcia informed NBC that Miller’s cause of death was asphyxiation “following possible intoxication after apparently consuming some food,” reported NBC News.
Garcia states that the outcomes of Miller’s toxicology examination and the official autopsy may require two to three months.
On Sunday, March 23, the MLB team announced Miller’s passing in a statement on X on behalf of his parents.
“With deep sorrow, we sadly share the news of our youngest son, Miller, passing away.” He was 14 years old and departed from us far too early after becoming ill with several other relatives during a vacation. “We have numerous questions and very few answers right now, but we do know he died quietly in his sleep on the morning of Friday, March 21st,” the post stated.
His parents recalled Miller as “a cherished son and sibling,” recognized for “his contagious smile.”
“We are immensely grateful to everyone who has contacted us with support and encouragement during this challenging period, and we believe our faith, family, and friends will assist us in coping with this unimaginable loss.” “Our thoughts are with Miller’s teammates and friends, along with all other families who have lost a child much too early as we mourn together,” the family expressed, requesting privacy during this difficult time.
Along with Miller, Brett and Jessica are also the parents of son Hunter Gardner.
Following Brett’s 2021 season with the Yankees, the professional athlete informed reporters that he ultimately wished to dedicate his time to his family.
“This game has treated me well and has been wonderful for my family,” he stated, according to Post and Courier. “However, as you continue to play and your children grow older, it becomes more challenging and I miss out on many moments — not having the chance to see them at home engaging in their activities.”