Texas Congressional Staffer Regina Santos-Aviles Dies After Setting Herself on Fire; Family Disputes Suicide Claim [PHOTOS]

Uvalde, TX – A Texas congressional staffer died after dousing herself with gasoline and setting herself on fire at her home, according to firefighters. But her family insists her tragic death was accidental and not a deliberate act of self-harm.

Regina Santos-Aviles, 35, who worked as a regional district director for Rep. Tony Gonzales (R–Texas), caught fire on the night of September 13 at her Uvalde residence. Despite suffering severe burns, she was found alive by her mother around 9:30 p.m. and airlifted to a hospital. She later died of her injuries.

Firefighters’ Report vs. Family’s Account

According to a report cited by the Uvalde Leader News, firefighters said Santos-Aviles had “doused herself in gasoline” before the blaze. Gasoline cans were discovered and extinguished at the scene.

Investigators confirmed she was alone when the fire started, with home surveillance footage showing no one else present. Police said they did not suspect foul play or involvement by another person.

Still, Santos-Aviles’ family rejected the idea that she intentionally set herself on fire. One relative told KSAT that her last words were: “I don’t want to die.”

Texas Rep. Tony Gonzales' staffer burned to death after dousing herself with gasoline, setting her body ablaze

A Life Cut Short

A married mother to an 8-year-old son, Santos-Aviles was remembered as someone who devoted herself to both her family and community.

“She loved life and loved her family and loved everyone and loved doing for others,” Rep. Gonzales told the San Antonio Express-News. “She loved the work that she did and how she helped the communities get funding for things they needed.”

Gonzales, now in his third term, hired Santos-Aviles in 2021 as regional district director. In a statement following her death, he said: “We are all heart-stricken by the recent news. She will always be remembered for her passion towards Uvalde and helping the community become a better place.”

Unanswered Questions

Authorities have not determined whether Santos-Aviles’ death was accidental or an act of self-harm. Investigators said the case remains open, and it may take weeks for medical examiners to issue a final report.

For now, her community mourns the loss of a dedicated public servant whose sudden death has raised painful questions that remain without clear answers.