The autopsy results for Miller Gardner, the 14-year-old son of former New York Yankees outfielder Brett Gardner, will be delayed by several months due to a spike in gang-related violence overwhelming the medical examiners in Costa Rica.
Miller was found unresponsive in bed at the Arenas Del Mar Resort in Manuel Antonio last Friday, during a family vacation.
According to local authorities, the night before his death, several members of Brett Gardner’s family, including Miller, became ill after dining at a nearby restaurant. Food poisoning was initially suspected.
Costa Rican Authorities Rule Out Asphyxiation In Miller Gardner’s Death
Instagram | Hampton Abernathy
“The whole family fell ill, likely from food poisoning from something they ate,” the Costa Rica’s Judicial Investigation Police confirmed to CNN on Tuesday.
Authorities later ruled out asphyxiation and are now exploring whether Miller may have suffered an allergic reaction to medication he was given to treat the illness. Alvarado Garcia stated that toxicology testing is underway to determine if the medication contributed to the teen’s death.
Autopsy Results For Brett Gardner’s Son Delayed Amid Violence Surge In Costa Rica
However, a representative for Costa Rica’s Judicial Investigation Agency, Juan Pablo Alvarado Garcia, has now confirmed to the Daily Mail on Wednesday that the process could take “at least two to three months” to complete.
The delay, he explained, is directly linked to the recent escalation of drug gang violence in the country.
“We’re having a hike in homicides as these drug gangs battle for territory and every one of them needs an autopsy,” Alvarado Garcia said. Although Miller’s autopsy has already been performed, he noted the “full analysis” will take longer to complete due to the volume of cases related to the “constant killings.” “That’s the reality,” he added.
Costa Rica has experienced a surge in drug-related violence in recent years. In 2023 alone, the Judicial Investigation Agency reported over 900 homicides, marking a record high for the country, once regarded as one of the region’s most peaceful travel destinations.
Brett Gardner And Wife Jessica Mourn 14-Year-Old Son Miller In Heartbreaking Statement
Instagram | Hunter Gardner
Miller’s parents, Brett and Jessica Gardner, confirmed the heartbreaking news in a statement shared by the Yankees on Sunday. “He was 14 years old and has left us far too soon after falling ill along with several other family members while on vacation,” the statement read. “We have so many questions and so few answers at this point.”
The family remembered Miller as “a beloved son” who “loved football, baseball, golf, hunting, fishing, his family and his friends,” adding that “he lived life to the fullest every single day.”
Brett and Jessica, who married in 2007, also share a younger son, Hunter.
Arenas Del Mar Resort Issues Statement
In a message shared with Daily Mail, the Arenas Del Mar Resort offered its sympathies, saying, “We are deeply saddened by this loss, and our hearts go out to the family during this incredibly difficult time.”
They added, “We remain committed to supporting our guests and staff, prioritizing their well-being and safety, while respecting the privacy of those affected.”
Yankees Mourn With Brett Gardner After Tragic Loss Of His 14-Year-Old Son
The sudden loss has sent shockwaves through the baseball community and beyond. Friends, teammates, fans, and fellow athletes have rallied around the Gardner family, offering condolences and support in the wake of the tragedy.
In a heartfelt statement, the Yankees organization shared its own grief over the devastating news.
“Words feel insignificant and insufficient in trying to describe such an unimaginable loss. It wasn’t just Brett who literally grew up in this organization for more than 17 years, so did his wife, Jessica, and their two boys, Hunter and Miller,” the team stated, as reported by ESPN.
“We grieve with Brett, Jessica, Hunter, and their community of family and friends in mourning the loss of Miller, who had a spark in his eyes, an outgoing and feisty personality, and a warm and loving nature,” the team added. “Our love for the Gardner family is unconditional and absolute, and we will offer our enduring support while understanding their desire for privacy at this time.”
The Yankees concluded, “May Miller rest in peace.”
