Two months after the sudden death of Miller Gardner, the 14-year-old son of former New York Yankees outfielder Brett Gardner, questions remain. Authorities are investigating what really happened in the Costa Rican resort where he was found unresponsive.

ESPN reported that the case remains open as they continue investigating whether the teen’s death will ultimately be ruled a homicide.

Gardner died on March 21 while on vacation with his family at the Arenas del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort in Quepos. Initially, Costa Rica’s Judicial Investigation Department believed the cause of death to be accidental. By early April, officials pointed to carbon monoxide poisoning as the likely cause.

But that hasn’t closed the case.

Related: Preliminary Cause of Death for Former Yankees Star Brett Gardner’s Son Revealed

A spokesperson for the Quepos and Parrita branch of the Costa Rican prosecutor’s office confirmed the investigation is ongoing, to determine whether the death was natural or criminal.

Sharon Hernandez Coto told the outlet, “It is not possible at this time to confirm or rule out that a crime has been committed.” She also clarified that every case is handled individually, and there’s no official timetable for reaching a conclusion.

The Gardner family, who fell ill along with Miller during the trip, has not commented since releasing a statement through the Yankees on March 23. A week after Miller’s death, investigators tested the room and found high levels of carbon monoxide. The autopsy ruled out asphyxiation.

The case has now shifted to the prosecutor’s office, which has a 33-page manual outlining Costa Rica’s legal procedures. Investigators are still in the early stages, gathering evidence and completing tests before determining whether to file formal charges or close the case.

Miller Gardner, who played high school football in South Carolina, wore the same No. 11 jersey as his father, a 14-season veteran and key member of the Yankees’ 2009 World Series championship team. Brett Gardner retired in 2021.

While Miller’s death has drawn sympathy from across the sports world, the full story of what happened that night in Costa Rica remains unclear. The search for answers to his tragic and untimely death continues.

Related: Teenage Son of Longtime Yankees Player Dies on Family Vacation, Cause of Death Unclear

New Details Emerge Regarding Cause of Death for Former Yankee Brett Gardner’s Son first appeared on Men’s Journal on Jun 13, 2025