Baseball legend’s younger son dies on household vacation as tragic reason behind demise reported

The 14-year-old son of New York Yankees icon Brett Gardner died during a family holiday in Costa Rica

The teenage son of New York Yankees icon Brett Gardner has died during a family holiday in Costa Rica.

Miller Gardner, 14, became seriously ill while on a family getaway with his baseball legend dad. The young boy’s body was discovered in a hotel room last Friday.

NBC News has now reported that an official with Costa Rica’s Judicial Investigation Agency told the organisation Miller died from asphyxiation “after a possible intoxication after apparently ingesting some food”.

Efforts are now being made by the family to repatriate Miller’s body to the US, while authorities are believed to be on standby for an autopsy result, reports the Mirror.

The US State Department confirmed “the death of a US citizen in Costa Rica on March 21”. It told the New York Post on Monday: “We are closely monitoring local authorities’ investigation into the cause of death.

“Out of respect for the privacy of the family and loved ones during this difficult time, we have no further comment at this time.”

In a heart-wrenching statement, the family said: “With heavy hearts we are saddened to announce the passing of our youngest son, Miller. He was 14-years-old and has left us far too soon after falling ill along with several other family members while on vacation.

“We have so many questions and so few answers at this point, but we do know that he passed away peacefully in his sleep on the morning of Friday, March 21st.

“Miller was a beloved son and brother and we cannot yet comprehend our life without his infectious smile. He loved football, baseball, golf, hunting, fishing, his family and his friends.”

Gardner, 41, enjoyed a prolific 14-season career with the Yankees from 2008 to 2021 and was an integral member of their 2009 World Series championship team.

Known for his strong rapport with fellow team-mates, including star player Aaron Judge, Gardner was a highly esteemed figure within the Yankees organisation.

The Yankees also posted a heartfelt tribute, which read: “Our hearts are heavy, and the Yankees family is filled with grief after learning of the passing of Miller Gardner.

“Words feel insignificant and insufficient in trying to describe such an unimaginable loss. It wasn’t just Brett who literally grew up in this organisation for more than 17 years – so did his wife, Jessica, and their two boys, Hunter and Miller.

“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.

“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. May Miller rest in peace.”