UVALDE, Texas — The Texas Rangers and local law enforcement are investigating the death of a senior staffer for Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-TX) following a disturbing incident over the weekend.
The staffer, 35-year-old Regina Santos-Aviles, served as regional district director in Gonzales’ office since November 2021. She was well known in the Uvalde community for her dedication and civic involvement.
Police responded to a call around 9:30 p.m. Saturday on Geraldine Avenue in Uvalde. When officers arrived, Santos-Aviles was found on fire outside her home.
In an interview, a family member said that when she was still conscious, her last words were “I don’t want to die.”
Firefighters extinguished the flames quickly. Santos-Aviles was still alive and was airlifted to Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio with extensive burns.
She was pronounced dead early Sunday morning at 6:30 a.m.
The Uvalde Police Department, Texas Rangers, and the Bexar County Medical Examiner’s Office are all involved in the investigation. While no foul play is suspected at this time, officials say the death is being treated as “unattended and unusual,” which requires a standard investigation.
Her mother believes the incident was accidental, noting that a garden hose outside the home may have been what her daughter was trying to reach.
San Antonio’s KSAT continues:
Santos-Aviles, who family members nicknamed “Regi,” was described as full of love. They said she loved being able to help people and communities through her job.
Family members told KSAT Investigates she was a great wife and mother to her young son.
In a statement to KSAT, Uvalde Police Chief Homer Delgado called Santos-Aviles’ death a “tragic loss.” He did not provide details of the incident, but noted that there is no indication of foul play.
“We are all heart-stricken by the recent news,” said Rep. Gonzales in a statement to KSAT Investigates. “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.”
A full medical examiner’s report, including cause and manner of death, is expected in 12 to 16 weeks.
First elected to the U.S. House in 2020, Gonzales took office on Jan. 3, 2021, and now serves on the Appropriations and Homeland Security committees.
Before joining Gonzales’s office, Santos-Aviles held leadership roles in the community and was active in local affairs.
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