The tragic passing of 14-year-old Miller Gardner, son of former New York Yankees outfielder Brett Gardner, has been officially attributed to carbon monoxide poisoning, according to recent toxicology reports. The teenager died on March 21, 2025, during a family vacation in Costa Rica.
Randall Zuniga, director of Costa Rica’s Judicial Investigation Agency, announced the findings, stating, “The toxicology results are in, and the carboxyhemoglobin test found a saturation of 64%. Concentrations above 50% are already lethal.”
Miller Gardner death: Family vacation in Costa Rica turned tragic
The Gardner family, including Brett, his wife Jessica, and their sons Miller and Hunter, were staying at the Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort in Manuel Antonio. After dining at a local restaurant on March 20, several family members, including Miller, fell ill. The following morning, Miller was found unresponsive in his room.
Initial speculations pointed to asphyxiation due to food poisoning or an allergic reaction to drug as potential causes. However, these theories were later dismissed. Subsequent investigations revealed high levels of carbon monoxide in the family’s hotel room, which was adjacent to a mechanical room.
Resort’s response still creates doubt
Despite the findings, the resort has contested claims that carbon monoxide infiltrated guest areas. A spokesperson for the resort stated, “The levels in the hotel room were non-existent and non-lethal. There was an error in this initial reporting.” The resort emphasized that high concentrations of the gas were confined to the mechanical room and did not pose a threat to guests.
Safety implications for tourists
This incident underscores the critical importance of carbon monoxide awareness, especially for travelers. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that can be fatal when inhaled in significant amounts. Travelers are advised to carry portable carbon monoxide detectors and ensure that accommodations have proper safety measures in place.
The confirmation of carbon monoxide poisoning as the cause of Miller Gardner’s death brings a somber closure to this tragic event, impacting the family of the former Yankees star. It serves as a poignant reminder of the potential dangers posed by this invisible threat and highlights the necessity for stringent safety protocols in hospitality establishments worldwide.
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