UVALDE, Texas — The family of Regina Santos-Aviles is forcefully rejecting reports alleging the late congressional aide was involved in an affair with Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-TX), calling the claims “sickening” and politically motivated.
Aide’s Tragic Death Under Investigation
Santos-Aviles, 35, was found severely burned in her backyard on Sept. 13, 2025. Her mother, Nora Gonzales, discovered her still on fire at the family’s home in Uvalde. Santos-Aviles was airlifted to Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, where she died the following morning.
First responders say she doused herself in gasoline and ignited the blaze. Authorities have found no evidence of foul play and confirmed she was alone at the time.
According to her mother, Santos-Aviles had been distraught that weekend because her 8-year-old son was visiting her estranged husband. Her final words, as reported by family, were: “I don’t want to die.”
Allegations Emerge After Death
Weeks later, the Daily Mail published a report citing unnamed sources claiming Santos-Aviles had been in a long-running affair with Gonzales, who has represented Texas’ sprawling 23rd District since 2021. The story alleged the affair began in 2021 after she joined his staff as a regional district director.
The article noted that Santos-Aviles was separated from her husband at the time of her death. Her husband reportedly declined to speak to the outlet. The Mail also reported that Gonzales did not attend her funeral.
Gonzales Office Responds: ‘Sickening’
Gonzales’ office did not respond to the Daily Mail, but a spokesperson told the New York Post that the congressman condemned efforts to politicize her death.
“Regina Aviles was a kind soul who had a lasting impact on her community, which she continued to serve until her untimely death,” the spokesperson said. “To see political bottom feeders distort the circumstances around her passing is truly sickening. Tony Gonzales remains laser-focused on delivering historic achievements for Texas and condemns any attempts to misuse this tragedy.”
Family Pushes Back
Santos-Aviles’ family has publicly rejected the affair allegations, calling her a devoted mother and dedicated public servant:
“I don’t think it has any merit,” Nora Gonzales told The Post, adding that the claims are “completely false.”
Nora found her daughter badly burned after Santos-Aviles doused herself in gasoline before igniting in the backyard of her home, according to cops and surveillance footage.
Santos-Aviles begged her for water and was later rushed to a nearby hospital, where she died. Nora told The Post she is unsure why her daughter doused herself in gasoline.
Political Fallout in a Tight Race
The renewed media scrutiny could have political implications for Gonzales as he prepares for a high-profile primary rematch in 2026.
In 2024, Gonzales narrowly held off conservative challenger Brandon Herrera, a gun rights influencer known as “The AK Guy,” who came within 400 votes of ousting the incumbent. Gonzales has faced criticism from some on the right over his votes on border security and gun control, with opponents branding him a “RINO” — Republican In Name Only.
Texas’ 23rd Congressional District spans more than 800 miles along the U.S.-Mexico border, covering parts of San Antonio and vast rural areas. The region remains one of the most competitive in the state.
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