March 25, 2025 – Costa Rica
Miller Gardner, the 14-year-old son of former New York Yankees outfielder Brett Gardner, tragically passed away while vacationing with his family in Costa Rica. Authorities suspect that food intoxication may have been the cause, though an official autopsy report has yet to be released.
According to Costa Rican officials, Miller died in his sleep on Friday, March 21, after experiencing sudden illness. Several other family members also fell ill around the same time. Preliminary reports suggest that he may have suffered asphyxiation due to a reaction to contaminated food or drink, but further investigation is ongoing.
The devastating news was shared in a heartfelt statement released by Brett and Jessica Gardner through the Yankees’ official social media account on Sunday.
“Miller was a beloved son and brother, and we cannot yet comprehend our life without his infectious smile,” the couple wrote. “He loved football, baseball, golf, hunting, fishing, his family, and his friends. He lived life to the fullest every single day.”
The U.S. State Department also confirmed Miller’s passing, stating they are closely monitoring the investigation. However, they did not disclose the specific location where the Gardners were staying.
An Outpouring of Support
The Yankees organization issued a statement expressing their sorrow over the sudden loss, emphasizing their deep bond with the Gardner family.
“Words feel insignificant and insufficient in trying to describe such an unimaginable loss,” the team shared on social media. “We grieve with Brett, Jessica, Hunter, and their community of family and friends as they mourn the loss of Miller, who had a spark in his eyes, an outgoing and feisty personality, and a warm and loving nature.”
Brett Gardner, 40, was a longtime fixture of the Yankees, spending all 14 seasons of his Major League Baseball career with the team. He was named an American League All-Star in 2015, won a Gold Glove in 2016, and was a key player in the Yankees’ 2009 World Series championship team. He retired from professional baseball in 2021.
As the Gardner family navigates this profound loss, they have requested privacy while they grieve and search for healing.
“We are confident our faith, family, and friends will help us navigate this unimaginable loss,” the family stated. “Our prayers go out to Miller’s teammates and friends, as well as to all other families who have lost a child far too soon.”
The investigation into the cause of Miller’s illness and subsequent passing remains ongoing, with further details expected to emerge following the final autopsy report.
May Miller Gardner rest in peace.
