The community of Uvalde is mourning the loss of Regina Ann Santos-Aviles, a 35-year-old congressional staffer for U.S. Representative Tony Gonzales.
Santos-Aviles died after suffering severe burns when her home caught fire late Saturday night, Sept. 13, 2025.
Police and firefighters were called to Santos-Aviles’ home on Geraldine Avenue around 9:30 p.m., where they found her on fire outside the residence. Emergency responders rushed to extinguish the flames before she was airlifted to San Antonio Military Medical Center.
Despite efforts to save her, she was pronounced dead early Sunday morning, according to the Bexar County Medical Examiner’s Office.
The Uvalde Police Department and the Texas Rangers are jointly investigating the case. While the cause and manner of death remain under review, Uvalde Police Chief Homer Delgado described the incident as a “tragic loss” and confirmed that there is currently no indication of foul play.
Family members, still reeling from the sudden tragedy, say Santos-Aviles’ death appeared to be accidental. They pointed to a water hose found outside the home and recalled the chaotic moments as they tried to help her.
A close relative shared that in her final moments, Santos-Aviles whispered, “I don’t want to die,” words that capture the heartbreak surrounding her passing.
Known affectionately as “Regi,” Santos-Aviles was remembered by her family as a loving wife, a devoted mother to her young son, and someone whose kindness touched everyone around her. Professionally, she was widely respected in Uvalde for her leadership and commitment to community service.
After serving as executive director of the Uvalde Area Chamber of Commerce, she joined Rep. Gonzales’ team in November 2021 as regional district director, where she spearheaded local development initiatives and served as the congressman’s representative across the district.
Rep. Gonzales issued a statement following her death, calling her passing devastating. “We are all heart-stricken by the recent news. 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.”
For Uvalde, a city that has endured tragedy in recent years, the loss of Santos-Aviles is another blow to a close-knit community.
Friends, colleagues, and neighbors are remembering her as a woman who lived for others and whose sudden absence will be deeply felt.
