Miller Gardner and Brett Gardner. Photo:
New York Yankees/ X
The Costa Rica resort where Brett Gardner’s teenage son Miller tragically died while the family was on vacation has broken its silence.
Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort, where the New York Yankees player’s 14-year-old child died on March 21, has released a statement following the tragedy.
“We are deeply saddened by this loss and our hearts go out to the family during this incredibly difficult time. The factors that led to this tragic incident are unknown and we are fully cooperating with authorities as they investigate,” a representative for the resort told PEOPLE.
“We remain committed to supporting our guests and staff, prioritizing their well-being and safety while respecting the privacy of those affected,” the statement concluded.
Brett and Jessica Gardner’s son Miller. New York Yankees/X
After the previous cause of death by asphyxiation in Miller’s case was ruled out, the hotel added: “The family did not eat at any of Arenas Del Mar’s restaurants for lunch or dinner the previous day. Additionally, on March 14th, we had an inspection by the Health Ministry in which the hotel passed with a 98.5 out of 100.”
While it was previously reported that Miller had died by asphyxiation “after a possible intoxication after apparently ingesting some food,” officials are now saying that this is not the case.
“The preliminary ruling ruled out asphyxiation as the cause of death. No macro-level abnormalities were observed in the respiratory tract upon inspection of the body,” according to Juan Pablo Alvarado Garcia, an official with Costa Rica’s Judicial Investigation Agency,
Garcia added that a toxicology test and official autopsy are currently pending, and the results could take two to three months. The investigation is still ongoing.
New York Yankee Brett Gardner, his wife Jessica and sons Miller and Hunter attend the CCandy Children’s Clothing Line Launch on August 8, 2013 in New York City. JP Yim/Getty
On Sunday, March 23, Brett and his wife Jessica Gardner announced that their son had died unexpectedly while they were vacationing with loved ones, per their statement on X.
“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,” they wrote.
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“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,” they continued.
They noted that Miller was “a beloved son and brother” and added, “We cannot yet comprehend our life without his infectious smile. He loved football, baseball, golf, hunting, fishing, his family and his friends. He lived life to the fullest every single day.”
