Food poisoning is now being eyed in the tragic death of former New York Yankee Brett Gardner’s 14-year-old son Miller, Costa Rican cops said Tuesday.
Authorities ruled out asphyxiation, which was originally reported as the cause of death, and warned that it could take months before authorities could say for certain why the teen died Friday at a high-end resort in the country.
Costa Rica’s Judicial Investigation Police said an initial examination of Miller Gardner’s body found that his airways were not obstructed.
Miller Gardner, center, died suddenly while on vacation with his family.
Miller Gardner was staying at the upscale Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest resort when he fell seriously ill. Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort
“Therefore, various samples were sent to the [agency’s] Forensic Science laboratories for three analyses: histology, toxicology and neuropathology,” a rep for the department said in an email to The Post. “A study was also requested from the Costa Rican Institute for Research and Teaching in Nutrition and Health at the University of Costa Rica.
“The results are expected to be available in two to three months due to the high demand for autopsies being performed in the country due to the increase in homicides.”
Brett Gardner, his wife Jessica and their sons, Miller and Hunter, were vacationing at the upscale Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort outside Manuel Antonio National Park when he was found dead in his bed, according to officials.
Officials are currently working with the family to transfer Miller’s body back to the US, the outlet reports. Instagram / Ken
Investigators initially believed he choked to death because he had vomited in his bed – and have not ruled out food poisoning as the culprit.
In a statement this week, Hotel La Mariposa and Restaurant Le Papillon, where the Gardners dined while on vacation, tried to distance itself from the teen’s tragic death.
“In response to misinformation on social media, we would like to clarify that the Gardner family visited our Le Papillon restaurant on Tuesday evening, March 28, three days before Miller’s unfortunate passing,” the eatery said, according to Costa Rican outlet Diario Extra.
Meanwhile, the resort where the family was vacationing also distanced itself from the tragedy on Tuesday.
“The factors that led to this tragic incident are unknown and we are fully cooperating with authorities,” the hotel said in an email to The Post. “We remain committed to supporting our guests and staff, prioritizing their well-being and safety while respecting the privacy of those affected.”
Brett Gardner, 41, played outfield for the Bronx Bombers for 14 years, and was a popular fixture on the Yankees until his retirement after the 2021 season.
