Costa Rica Authorities Raid Hotel in Manslaughter Investigation Following Death of Brett Gardner’s Son
Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica – September 12, 2025 – Nearly six months after the tragic death of 14-year-old Miller gardner, son of former New York Yankees outfielder Brett Gardner, Costa Rican authorities conducted a meaningful raid on the Arenas del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort, the site where the teenager died in March. The renewed investigation,spearheaded by Prosecutor Kenneth Alvarez,suggests the possibility of a manslaughter case stemming from the circumstances surrounding Miller’s death by carbon monoxide poisoning.
This advancement marks the first formal, complete search of the luxury resort since initial investigations were conducted shortly after the tragedy. The raid, involving agents from Costa Rica’s Judicial Investigation Department (OIJ), focused on gathering additional evidence to determine potential negligence or culpability in the incident.
“We are meticulously reconstructing the events leading up to Miller Gardner’s death,” stated Prosecutor Alvarez in an exclusive video interview with ESPN. “The initial assessment identified the presence of carbon monoxide, but our current focus is on establishing whether proper safety protocols were in place and adhered to, and if any actions – or inactions – contributed to this devastating outcome.”
A Timeline of Investigation & Shifting Focus
Miller Gardner passed away on March 21st while vacationing with his family at the Arenas Del Mar resort. Brett and Jessica Gardner publicly announced their son’s death two days later, stating that Miller and other family members had fallen ill during their trip. Initial reports, as relayed by the OIJ, suggested a possible case of food poisoning following a meal at a local restaurant. Asphyxiation was briefly considered but quickly dismissed.
However, subsequent testing revealed the presence of lethal levels of carbon monoxide. Authorities initially attributed the source to a nearby “machine room,” but the investigation has since broadened to encompass a thorough review of the resort’s safety infrastructure and maintenance records.
“The initial measurement of toxic substances was crucial in identifying carbon monoxide as the cause of death,” Alvarez explained. “Today’s operation was designed to collect the evidence necessary to determine how that carbon monoxide exposure occured and whether it was preventable.”
What Was Searched & Who Is Being Questioned?
The three-hour raid targeted key areas within the resort,including the offices of management,maintenance personnel,and accounting. Authorities seized both physical documents and digital data, seeking to uncover any evidence of potential safety violations, inadequate maintenance procedures, or a failure to address known risks.
According to Alvarez, several hotel staff members have been interviewed, and all have been cooperative with the investigation. “We are committed to a thorough and impartial investigation,” he emphasized. “Our goal is to understand exactly what happened and to ensure accountability if negligence is found.”
Currently, no arrests have been made, and no charges have been filed. However,the prosecutor’s statements clearly indicate a shift in the investigation’s focus towards potential criminal liability.
Gardner Family Involvement & FBI Assistance
The Gardner family, through their legal counsel in Costa Rica, has been kept informed of the ongoing investigation. Alvarez confirmed that the family was aware of the raid and that interaction remains open.
To ensure a comprehensive and technically sound investigation, Costa rican authorities have also sought guidance from the FBI attaché in Costa Rica. ”The FBI’s expertise in forensic analysis and investigative procedures is invaluable,” Alvarez stated. “Their assistance will help us build a robust case and ensure that all relevant factors are considered.”
A legacy Cut Short
Miller Gardner,a promising high school football player in South Carolina,followed in his father’s footsteps,wearing the iconic No.11 jersey that Brett Gardner proudly wore throughout his 14-season career with the New York Yankees. brett Gardner, a beloved figure in New York baseball and a key member of the 2009 World Series championship team, retired in 2021.
The loss of Miller has deeply impacted the Gardner family and the wider baseball community. The outcome of this investigation will undoubtedly be closely watched, not only by those directly involved but also by anyone concerned with ensuring the safety and well-being of travelers.
this is a developing story. ESPN will continue to provide updates as they become available.
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