The sudden death of Texas congressional staffer Regina Santos-Aviles has left Uvalde authorities and residents grappling with the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
Santos-Aviles, 35, a regional district director for Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-TX), collapsed outside her home after reportedly catching fire. Law enforcement continues to investigate the incident.
Santos-Aviles had a long-standing commitment to her community, previously serving as executive director of the Uvalde Area Chamber of Commerce and holding leadership positions with both the Uvalde County Fairplex and the Uvalde Area Development Foundation.
In 2021, she joined Congressman Gonzales’ office, where she managed district operations and worked closely with local families and businesses, according to Trending Politics.
Emergency personnel were dispatched to her Geraldine Avenue residence Saturday evening following reports of a crisis.
Firefighters, paramedics and police found Santos-Aviles outside and immediately transported her via helicopter to Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio for treatment of extensive burns.
She was pronounced dead early Sunday morning.
The Bexar County Medical Examiner’s office confirmed her passing but has not released an official cause or manner of death.
Investigators from the Uvalde Police Department and the Texas Rangers are actively reviewing the events that led to the fatal incident.
Uvalde Police Chief Homer Delgado noted that initial findings indicate no signs of foul play or struggle at the scene.
“We are working closely with the victim’s family, who are fully cooperating with our investigators,” he said. “As is our standard procedure, all unattended deaths are investigated.”
Family accounts describe the event as an unfortunate accident. Santos-Aviles’ mother, Nora Ann Gonzales, arrived at her daughter’s home Saturday evening, discovered her in distress, and called 911.
KSAT reports that relatives said that her final words were, “I don’t want to die.”
According to Uvalde Fire Chief Mario Rangel, the fire had been extinguished with a fire extinguisher before first responders arrived.
Officials noted that the flames originated behind the house and were contained prior to emergency personnel’s arrival.
Santos-Aviles is remembered for her dedication both as a mother and a public servant.
She leaves behind an eight-year-old son, and family members described her as “full of love,” emphasizing her tireless devotion to helping her community.
In a statement, Congressman Gonzales expressed sorrow over the loss and highlighted her professional contributions.
Quoting scripture, he wrote, “‘Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.’”
He praised her for her unwavering commitment to improving life in Uvalde and her efforts to support local residents.
Authorities continue to urge the public to respect the family’s privacy while the investigation proceeds.
Chief Delgado encouraged residents to support one another during this difficult time.
“In times of loss, our greatest duty is to stand together, support one another, and honor the memory of those we have lost,” he said, according to Texas Public Radio.
The tragic event has left the community in mourning.
As investigators work to determine what happened, first responders’ prompt actions and law enforcement’s thorough review demonstrate a continued commitment to public safety and uncovering the facts surrounding Santos-Aviles’ death.
