An early investigation has revealed a preliminary cause of death for the 14-year-old son of former New York Yankees star Brett Gardner.

Brett, who played outfield for the Major League Baseball team, announced that his son Miller had died, in a social media post on Sunday (23 March).

The family were on holiday in Costa Rica when several relatives including Miller fell ill. He died “peacefully in his sleep” on Friday morning (21 March). An early investigation has concluded that Miller died from asphyxiation after potentially falling sick from eating something.

An official with Costa Rica’s Judicial Investigation Agency said the asphyxia had occurred “after a possible intoxication after apparently ingesting some food,” in a statement to NBC News. His body is said to have been found in a hotel room in Manuel Antonio, a popular resort area on the Pacific Coast of the country.

The cause of death is preliminary and an autopsy and toxicology results are being awaited.

“Miller was a beloved son and brother and we cannot yet comprehend our life without his infectious smile,” Brett and his wife Jessica said in a statement. “He loved football, baseball, golf, hunting, fishing, his family and his friends. He lived life to the fullest every single day.”

They continued: “We are so thankful to all who have reached out to offer support and encouragement during this difficult time and we are confident our faith, family, and friends will help us navigate this unimaginable loss.

“Our prayers go out to Miller’s teammates and friends, as well as to all other families who have lost a child far too soon as we share their grief.”

Brett’s former team the Yankees followed up with a statement offering support to the family.

“Our hearts are heavy, and the Yankees family is filled with grief after learning of the passing of Miller Gardner,” the Yankees said in a statement.

“Words feel insignificant and insufficient in trying to describe such an unimaginable loss. It wasn’t just Brett who literally grew up in this organization for more than 17 years — so did his wife, Jessica, and their two boys, Hunter and Miller,” the team’s statement read.

“We grieve with Brett, Jessica, Hunter, and their community of family and friends in mourning the loss of Miller, who had a spark in his eyes, an outgoing and feisty personality, and a warm and loving nature.”

Social media was filled with condolences for the family and the deceased teen.