Congressional staffer BURNED TO DEATH at her home in Texas

Uvalde, Texas – September 18, 2025

In a shocking and heartbreaking incident that has left a community reeling, Regina Santos-Aviles, a 35-year-old dedicated congressional staffer for U.S. Representative Tony Gonzales (R-Texas), has died after suffering severe burns when she caught fire outside her home in Uvalde. The mother of a young son was pronounced dead early Sunday morning, following emergency calls to her residence on Geraldine Avenue late Saturday night. Authorities are investigating the circumstances, though early indications point to a tragic accident rather than foul play.

According to a police report obtained by local investigators, first responders from the Uvalde Police Department, fire department, and emergency medical services rushed to the scene around 9:30 p.m. on September 13 after a relative discovered Santos-Aviles engulfed in flames outside her house. By the time firefighters arrived, the blaze on her person had been extinguished—possibly with a nearby water hose, as noted by family members—but the damage was irreversible. She was transported to a local hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries the following day.Santos-Aviles's mother, Nora Ann Gonzales, shared the devastating details with reporters, describing the event as a "tragic accident" and revealing her daughter's eerie final words: "I don't want to die." Gonzales, speaking through tears, emphasized that there was no suspicion of criminal involvement, pointing to the presence of a garden hose near the home that may have been used in a desperate attempt to douse the flames. "The last thing she said is, ‘I don’t want to die,’" her mother recounted, underscoring the profound loss felt by the family.

Uvalde Police Chief Homer Delgado confirmed to media outlets that initial assessments show "no indication of foul play," but the department is collaborating with the Texas Rangers to thoroughly examine the scene and determine the exact cause of the fire. "We are all heart-stricken by the recent news," Rep. Tony Gonzales stated in a somber message to constituents and staff. "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." Gonzales, who represents Texas's 23rd Congressional District, highlighted Santos-Aviles's role as the Uvalde Regional District Director, where she worked tirelessly to support local initiatives and constituents in the wake of the town's devastating 2022 school shooting tragedy.

The incident has drawn widespread attention due to its bizarre and horrifying nature, with online discussions speculating on everything from accidental ignition sources to the emotional weight of her final utterance. Family members have urged the public to respect their privacy during this difficult time, while emphasizing Santos-Aviles's legacy as a devoted public servant and loving parent. She leaves behind a young son, whose well-being is now the focus of the grieving family's efforts.

As the investigation continues, officials from the Texas Department of Public Safety's Rangers Division are assisting Uvalde authorities in piecing together the events leading to this untimely death. Updates are expected as more details emerge, but for now, the small South Texas town of Uvalde—still healing from past traumas—mourns the loss of one of its own.

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