Regina Santos-Aviles, a 35-year-old congressional staffer for U.S. Representative Tony Gonzales, was found severely burned outside her home in Uvalde and later died at a San Antonio hospital. Her final words and dedicated life of service have left the community mourning. The Texas Rangers and Uvalde Police Department are investigating her death following a disturbing incident at her home on Saturday night.
Authorities responded to a report of a disturbance at her residence on Geraldine Avenue, where Santos-Aviles was found on fire outside the house. Officials confirmed that she suffered severe burns. Emergency responders arrived while she was still conscious and airlifted her to Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio. According to her mother, Nora Ann Gonzales, her last words were, “I don’t want to die.” Responders reassured her, saying, “We will do our best to take care of you.”
Moments before the incident, Santos-Aviles had been on the phone with her mother. She was distraught and asked about her son. When her mother arrived, she found her daughter injured outside the home. She described the death as an accident.
Records show that the Uvalde Volunteer Fire Department received a call at 9:39 p.m. reporting a person on fire. Although the call was later canceled, firefighters still responded due to the proximity of the residence. Fire Chief Mario Rangel said firefighters found a fire behind the house that had been put out with a fire extinguisher. EMS crews were treating Santos-Aviles and transported her for emergency medical care.
Since November 2021, Santos-Aviles served as regional district director for Congressman Gonzales’ office. Based in Uvalde, she played a crucial role in regional development and was a visible representative for the congressman throughout the district. Her LinkedIn profile notes that her work focused on helping communities gain access to resources and funding.
Rep. Gonzales expressed his sorrow in a statement: “We are heartbroken by this news. Regina devoted her career to making a difference in her community. She will always be remembered for her passion for Uvalde and helping the community become a better place.”
Uvalde Police Chief Homer E. Delgado said there is no evidence of foul play, although all unattended deaths are thoroughly investigated. “As Chief of Police, my heart goes out to the family and friends who are grieving,” he said.
The Bexar County Medical Examiner has not yet released the cause or manner of death. Results are expected within 12 to 16 weeks. The family is fully cooperating with investigators. Santos-Aviles, remembered by her mother as a devoted mother to her 8-year-old son, left a lasting impact on friends and colleagues.
Longtime friend Lacie Huddleston described her as “a light who could brighten any room,” while Clarissa Valdez recalled her “spunky personality and laugh” and the “bold spirit” that defined their youth. Another friend, Angie Mae, wrote, “Rest peacefully, beautiful soul.”
Her death has deeply affected the community, but her legacy of service, friendship, and strength lives on. Loved ones have shared photos showing a woman fully engaged in her community, surrounded by friends, and full of warmth.