Miller Gardner, 14, died from carbon monoxide poisoning while on vacation in Costa Rica.
Miller Gardner, the 14-year-old son of former New York Yankees player Brett Gardner, died as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning, according to the Judicial Investigation Organization (OIJ) of
Costa Rica.
The young boy passed away on March 21 while vacationing with his family at the Arenas del Mar Hotel in Quepos, a popular tourist destination.
Randall Zúñiga, the director of the OIJ, confirmed the cause of death on the evening of April 2, stating that the determination was made following toxicology tests which corroborated the initial suspicions of carbon monoxide exposure.
During the autopsy, a specific layer on the organs of the deceased was noted, indicative of death by carbon monoxide inhalation, providing further scientific support for the toxicological findings.
Zúñiga emphasized that a thorough scientific examination allowed investigators to ascertain the facts surrounding Miller's death.
Additionally, the OIJ's forensic examination found significant levels of carbon monoxide in Miller's bloodstream.
Toxicology results indicated a carbon monoxide saturation level of 64%.
Zúñiga explained that saturation levels above 50% are considered lethal, confirming the hypothesis that Miller’s death was due to exposure to poisonous gases.
The Clínica Universidad de Navarra notes that carboxyhemoglobin, the compound formed when carbon monoxide binds to hemoglobin in red blood cells, impairs the transportation of oxygen to body tissues due to its significantly higher affinity for hemoglobin compared to oxygen.
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to understand the circumstances leading to the carbon monoxide exposure at the hotel, with a focus on ensuring the safety of such accommodations for future guests.