The community of Uvalde, Texas, is grieving after the sudden and tragic death of Regina Santos-Aviles, a congressional staffer who dedicated her career to public service.
Santos-Aviles, just 35 years old, died following a devastating fire at her home, leaving behind an eight-year-old son and a community that knew her as both a devoted mother and a tireless advocate.
The Heartbreaking Discovery
On the night of September 13, Santos-Aviles’s mother, Nora Ann Gonzales, found her daughter engulfed in flames at their Uvalde residence.
She quickly called for emergency help. Firefighters arrived to find that the blaze behind the home had already been extinguished with a fire extinguisher, but by then Santos-Aviles had suffered severe burns.
Emergency responders rushed her to Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, a facility known for treating critical burn victims.
Despite their efforts, she died the following morning at 6:34 a.m., according to the Bexar County Medical Examiner’s Office.
Her Final Words
In one of the most haunting details shared by her mother, Santos-Aviles’s last words were a desperate plea: “I don’t want to die.”
Her mother recalled that medical personnel reassured her, telling her they would do everything possible to save her.
The moment underscored both the tragedy and the suddenness of the accident.
Remembered for Her Dedication
Santos-Aviles had served as regional district director for Republican Congressman Tony Gonzales since 2021.
Her work centered on supporting the Uvalde community, which has endured its share of heartbreak in recent years.
Congressman Gonzales issued a statement reflecting the sorrow felt across his office and district.
“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 toward Uvalde and helping the community become a better place.”
What Police Know So Far
Police Chief Homer Delgado confirmed that investigators have found no signs of foul play.
However, the Texas Rangers are assisting local authorities as they continue to piece together what exactly happened that night.
Call records show that officers were dispatched around 9:30 p.m., with the Uvalde Volunteer Fire Department also responding minutes later.
Although the initial call was canceled, firefighters still went to the scene since it was so close to their station.
By the time they arrived, the fire had already been put out, and Santos-Aviles was receiving urgent medical attention.
A Mother’s Perspective
For her family, the tragedy has been framed as a terrible accident.
Nora Ann Gonzales emphasized that her daughter had access to a water hose outside the home, which she believes shows there was no malicious intent or outside involvement.
She described her daughter not only as a professional who cared deeply about her community but also as a loving and present mother.
A Community in Mourning
The sudden loss of Regina Santos-Aviles has left a deep void in Uvalde.
Friends, colleagues, and family have come together to honor her life and commitment.
For many, her passing is yet another painful chapter in a town already familiar with loss, but her memory is being held up as an example of service, resilience, and devotion to family.
What’s Next?
The investigation into the circumstances of the fire continues, though authorities maintain that there is no evidence of foul play.
For now, the focus remains on supporting Santos-Aviles’s young son and family while celebrating the legacy she left behind—a legacy defined by compassion, public service, and love for her community.