A new lawsuit has been filed, alleging negligence and wrongful death in the tragic carbon monoxide poisoning incident that claimed the life of former New York Yankees outfielder Brett M. Gardner's teenage son at a Costa Rican resort. The legal action targets the owners and operators of the Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort in Manuel Antonio beach, located in Costa Rica's Central Pacific region.
Details of the Lawsuit and Allegations
The lawsuit was filed on Friday in Philadelphia federal court by Brett Gardner and other family members. It concerns the death of 14-year-old Miller Gardner in March 2025 during a family vacation. Costa Rican authorities attributed the fatality to carbon monoxide poisoning, with tests revealing high levels of carboxyhemoglobin in Miller Gardner's blood, indicating severe exposure to the toxic gas.
The legal claim specifically alleges that the resort's machine room was inadequately ventilated, leading to the release of carbon monoxide. This negligence is said to have caused Miller Gardner's death and resulted in injuries to other family members, including Brett Gardner, who were also sickened during the incident.
Defendants Named in the Case
Defendants listed in the lawsuit include individuals David Callan and R. Scott Williams, who are associated with owning and operating the resort. Additionally, Hawk Opportunity Fund LP, a venture capital firm based in Newtown, Pennsylvania, is named. Messages seeking comment were left at businesses linked to the fund and the two men, but responses have not been disclosed.
Background on Brett Gardner
Brett Gardner, drafted by the Yankees in 2005, spent his entire Major League Baseball career with the organization from 2008 to 2021. Over 14 seasons, he achieved a batting average of .256, with 139 home runs, 578 RBIs, 274 stolen bases, and 73 triples, establishing himself as a key player for the team.
The lawsuit underscores the serious allegations of safety failures at the resort, highlighting the need for accountability in such tragic circumstances. As the legal proceedings unfold, further details may emerge regarding the resort's operations and the specific claims of negligence.
