Regina Santos-Aviles, a regional director for U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales, died Sunday, September 14, after suffering severe burns during an incident at her home, according to police and family members.
Current Revolt first reported on the staffer’s death, citing local sources in Uvalde. The outlet initially reported her death as a self-immolation, but KSAT later published an interview with a family member who insisted the incident was accidental.
A family member told KSAT that the 35-year-old caught fire outside her Geraldine Avenue residence Saturday night. Emergency crews responded around 9:30 p.m. and airlifted her to San Antonio Military Medical Center for treatment. The Bexar County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed she died shortly after 6:30 a.m. Sunday.
“Her last words were ‘I don’t want to die,’” the family member said. They emphasized that her death was an accident and noted a water hose was located outside the home.
In a press release, Uvalde Police Chief Homer E. Delgado stated that his agency has conducted an initial review and continues to work with the Medical Examiner’s Office, Uvalde EMS, and the Texas Rangers.
“Once again, our heart goes out to the victim’s family and all those affected by this loss,” Delgado said. “At this point, there is still no indication of foul play. As is our standard procedure, all unattended deaths are thoroughly investigated.”
A spokesperson for Gonzales’ office stated that Santos-Aviles “continued to be a valued member of our team until her death last week,” according to Current Revolt. The spokesperson added, “She loved her community and we ask that you highlight all of her positive contributions and the impact that she had during her service.”
Gonzales also issued a statement to KSAT, calling the loss devastating. “We are all heart-stricken by the recent news,” he said. “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.”
Family members described her as a devoted wife and mother to her young son and remembered her as “full of love.” They said she valued her work helping communities and people across the region.
Santos-Aviles previously served as executive director of the Uvalde Area Chamber of Commerce before she joined Gonzales’ office in 2021.
As of Wednesday, September 18, the Medical Examiner’s Office had not finished determining the cause and manner of her death.