Miller Gardner, the 14-year-old son of former New York Yankees outfielder Brett Gardner, has died from carbon monoxide poisoning, according to Costa Rican authorities. A toxicology report confirmed a carboxyhemoglobin saturation level of 64%, well above the lethal threshold of 50%. The incident occurred while the family was vacationing at the Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort in Costa Rica.

Authorities learned that high levels of carbon monoxide were detected in a mechanical room adjacent to where Miller was staying. The investigation director, Randall Zúñiga, noted that signs of carbon monoxide exposure were evident in the autopsy findings, including a notable layer on the organs, as reported by Newsweek.

The tragedy unfolded on March 21, shortly after the Gardner family reported feeling unwell following dinner at a nearby restaurant, which initially led to speculation of food poisoning. However, that theory was dismissed following autopsy confirmations that ruled out asphyxiation from food-related illnesses. All family members, including Brett and his wife Jessica, felt ill after the meal, yet Miller's condition escalated to fatal levels, prompting rapid medical response from hotel staff, as highlighted by ABC News.

Brett Gardner, who played for the Yankees from 2008 to 2021, expressed profound grief in a family statement shared through the Yankees, calling Miller a "beloved son and brother", well-loved for his sportsmanship and vibrant nature, a testament to his character. As the family grapples with this unexpected loss, notable tributes from the sports community are pouring in, acknowledging both Miller's spirit and his father's role as a team leader during his tenure. This tragic incident highlights the severe and often hidden dangers of carbon monoxide, referred to as "the silent killer" due to its undetectable nature.

The occurrence has prompted safety discussions regarding the importance of carbon monoxide detectors and awareness of the potential risks associated with gas-powered appliances and machinery, pertinent to the ongoing investigations focusing on preventive measures for future incidents. Authorities confirmed that tests for other toxic substances came back negative, solidifying carbon monoxide as the sole cause of this heartbreaking event.

For more details, refer to the full coverage on New York Times and HuffPost.