Tragic Death of Brett Gardner's Son Linked to Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

In a heartbreaking incident that has shocked the sports community, authorities in Costa Rica have confirmed that the 14-year-old son of former New York Yankees outfielder Brett Gardner died from carbon monoxide poisoning. The tragic event occurred while the family was vacationing at a hotel on the picturesque Manuel Antonio beach.

Randall Zúñiga, director of the Judicial Investigation Agency, revealed that young Miller Gardner underwent testing for carboxyhemoglobin, a compound that forms when carbon monoxide binds to hemoglobin in the blood. Alarmingly, the results indicated a carboxyhemoglobin saturation level of 64%, well above the lethal threshold of 50%. This finding has raised serious concerns about the safety of the hotel environment.

Zúñiga noted that the room where Miller was found was adjacent to a machine room, which is suspected to be the source of carbon monoxide contamination. During the autopsy, forensic experts discovered a “layer” on the boy’s organs, a telltale sign of the presence of this poisonous gas. Initially, authorities had considered asphyxiation as the cause of death, but this theory was dismissed following the autopsy results.

In addition to the investigation into carbon monoxide exposure, there were early suspicions of food poisoning, as family members reported feeling unwell after dining at a nearby restaurant the night before Miller’s death. They had sought medical attention from the hotel doctor, but the autopsy findings have since shifted the focus of the investigation.

Brett Gardner, who played his entire Major League Baseball career with the Yankees from 2008 to 2021, is known for his speed on the field, boasting a career batting average of .256, along with 139 home runs, 578 RBIs, and 274 stolen bases. The loss of his son has undoubtedly cast a shadow over the former athlete’s accomplishments and personal life.

This tragic incident serves as a somber reminder of the potential dangers of carbon monoxide, often referred to as the “silent killer,” due to its colorless and odorless nature. Families and travelers are urged to remain vigilant about safety measures, particularly in unfamiliar environments. As investigations continue, the sports community and fans alike mourn the untimely loss of young Miller Gardner, a life cut short far too soon.