Texas staffer for Rep. Gonzales dies in backyard fire; last words to mother reported

A Texas congressional staffer for Republican Rep. Tony Gonzales has died after a fire at her home in Uvalde, according to the San Antonio Express-News. Regina Santos-Aviles, 35, uttered the words 'I don’t want to die' to her mother, Nora Ann Gonzales, when her mother arrived and found her burning, the newspaper reported. The blaze occurred Sept. 14, 2025.

Santos-Aviles had served as the congressman’s regional district director since 2021. Local fire officials said the fire started in the backyard and had been extinguished by responders; authorities have not announced a cause for the blaze. The Express-News noted that she was the mother of an 8-year-old boy.

Rep. Gonzales issued a statement praising Santos-Aviles' devotion to public service. '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,' the congressman said in a statement.

The Express-News reported that Santos-Aviles was transported by medical helicopter to Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, where she was pronounced dead. Uvalde police said no foul play is suspected and an investigation is ongoing.

Gonzales' office described Santos-Aviles as devoted to improving her Texas community, noting that she worked to help communities obtain funding for needed projects and services. The congressman and staff said the community has lost a dedicated public servant.

The tragedy has drawn condolences from colleagues and local leaders who highlighted Santos-Aviles’ role in securing funding and resources for projects in Uvalde and the surrounding area. The investigation into the blaze will continue, and authorities have stressed that there is no current indication of foul play.