Found severely burned outside her Uvalde home, she was airlifted to a San Antonio hospital, where she later died. Her final words and life of service have left a community in mourning.
The death of Regina Santos-Aviles, a 35-year-old congressional staffer for U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales, is under investigation by the Texas Rangers and the Uvalde Police Department following a disturbing scene at her home in Uvalde on Saturday night.
Santos-Aviles was found on fire outside her home on Geraldine Avenue after authorities responded to a report of a disturbance. Uvalde officials confirmed that her body had suffered severe burns.
She was still conscious when emergency responders arrived and was airlifted to Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio. “The last thing she said is, ‘I don’t want to die,'” her mother, Nora Ann Gonzales, revealed. “And they told her, ‘We will do our best to make sure we get you taken care of.'”
Santos-Aviles’ mother, who had been on the phone with her moments before the incident, said her daughter had been distraught and asked for her son. She drove to her daughter’s house and found her outside, already injured. She said her daughter’s death was an accident.
Records show that the Uvalde Volunteer Fire Department received a call at 9:39 p.m. reporting an individual on fire. Although the call was canceled en route, firefighters responded due to the proximity of the home.
Fire Chief Mario Rangel said they discovered that a fire behind the residence had been extinguished with a fire extinguisher. EMS crews were attending to Santos-Aviles, who was then transported for emergency care.
Santos-Aviles had served as regional district director for Gonzales’ office since November 2021. Based in Uvalde, she played a key role in regional development initiatives and was a visible representative for the congressman across the district. According to her LinkedIn profile, her work focused on helping communities access resources and funding.
Rep. Gonzales expressed his grief in a statement that read, “We are all heart-stricken by the recent news. Regina devoted her profession toward making a difference in her community. She will always be remembered for her passion towards Uvalde and helping the community become a better place.”
Police Chief Homer E. Delgado noted there was no indication of foul play, though all unattended deaths are routinely investigated. “As your 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 a cause or manner of death, with results expected in 12 to 16 weeks. Family members are cooperating fully with investigators.
Santos-Aviles, remembered by her mother as a devoted mom to her 8-year-old son, left a lasting impression on friends and colleagues alike.
Longtime friend Lacie Huddleston described her as “a light” who “could brighten any room,” while Clarissa Valdez remembered her “spunky personality and laugh” and the “bold spirit” that defined their shared youth. Angie Mae, another friend, wrote, “Rest peacefully beautiful soul!”
Santos-Aviles’ death has shaken her community — but her legacy of service, friendship, and strength remains.
