Police are investigating after Republican congressional staffer Regina Santos-Aviles died in a fire at her Uvalde home.
Authorities said the 35-year-old caught fire Saturday night and died the following morning.
The Incident
The fire broke out on Sept. 13 around 9:30 p.m.
Her mother, Nora Ann Gonzales, called 911 to report the emergency.
Firefighters found evidence of a blaze behind the residence.
Regina Santos-Aviles,
The flames had been extinguished with a fire extinguisher by the time crews arrived.
Chief Mario Rangel of the Uvalde Volunteer Fire Department confirmed the details.
He said Santos-Aviles was discovered burning in the backyard.
Her mother told reporters the fire was “an accident.”
Medical Response
Santos-Aviles was still conscious when first responders arrived.
She was airlifted to Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio.
Her mother said her final words were, “I don’t want to die.”
Doctors pronounced her dead at 6:30 a.m. the next day.
The Bexar County medical examiner said results will take months.
The cause and manner of death could take three to four months to determine.
Officials said no foul play is suspected at this time.
Her Career
Santos-Aviles served as the Uvalde regional district director for Rep. Tony Gonzales.
She worked to help secure resources and funding for local projects.
Tony Gonzales
Gonzales praised her dedication to serving the community.
“Regina devoted her profession toward making a difference,” he said.
“She will always be remembered for her passion for Uvalde.”
He added that her work helped make the district a better place.
She was a beloved staffer and a trusted voice for residents.
Family’s Loss
Santos-Aviles leaves behind an 8-year-old son.
Her mother described her as deeply devoted to family.
“She loved life and loved her family and loved doing for others,” she said.
Friends and colleagues remembered her compassion and work ethic.
Her mother said she was committed to helping others achieve better opportunities.
The family has asked for privacy as they grieve.
Her death has shaken the tight-knit Uvalde community.
Community Response
Police Chief Homer Delgado issued a statement of condolence.
“My heart goes out to the family and friends who are grieving,” he said.
He urged the town to come together during the tragedy.
“Our greatest duty is to support one another and honor her memory,” he added.
The Texas Rangers are assisting Uvalde police in the investigation.
Officials stressed that the investigation remains ongoing.
