The sudden death of a congressional staffer for Rep. Tony Gonzales is puzzling investigators in Texas, who say they have not yet determined how she died.
Regina Santos-Aviles, 35, collapsed at her Uvalde home late Sept. 13 and was rushed to a hospital, where she was pronounced dead at 6:34 a.m. the following morning, according to the Bexar County Medical Examiner’s Office. A cause and manner of death have not been released, The Daily Caller reported.
The Uvalde Police Department confirmed this week that its officers, working with the Texas Rangers, are continuing to investigate the circumstances. Police Chief Homer Delgado said investigators found no signs of foul play.
“We are working closely with the victim’s family, who are fully cooperating with our investigators during this difficult time,” Delgado said in a statement. “At this point, there is no indication of foul play. As is our standard procedure, all unattended deaths are investigated.”
Delgado added that the department’s priority is ensuring dignity for the family and the community. “In times of loss, our greatest duty is to stand together, support one another, and honor the memory of those we have lost,” he said.
Family members told The Daily Mail that Santos-Aviles allegedly caught fire inside her home shortly before she collapsed. Her mother, Nora Ann Gonzales, discovered her daughter in distress and called 911.
Santos-Aviles’ mother told the outlet that her daughter’s final words were, “I don’t want to die.”
Uvalde Fire Chief Mario Rangel told the San Antonio Express-News that firefighters who responded found evidence of a small fire. “When we arrived, we learned of a fire behind the residence that had been put out with a fire extinguisher,” Rangel said.
Authorities have not released details about what may have started the blaze.
Santos-Aviles, who was a mother to an 8-year-old son, was remembered by friends, family and colleagues as deeply devoted to her family and community.
Before joining Gonzales’s congressional office in 2021, Santos-Aviles worked at the Uvalde Area Chamber of Commerce. In her role as district director for Gonzales, she was responsible for local outreach and constituent services in the South Texas district.
Rep. Gonzales (R-Texas) posted a passage of scripture in her memory after her death: “‘Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.’ 2 Thessalonians 3:16.”
In a statement, Gonzales praised her dedication. “We are all heart-stricken by the recent news,” he said. “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 Texas Rangers, who often assist local police in complex or high-profile cases, are participating in the investigation. A spokesperson for the agency did not respond to a request for comment.
The Bexar County Medical Examiner’s Office has not set a timeline for when its findings may be released. Toxicology and other lab work often take weeks.
Authorities stressed that while rumors are circulating about what may have happened, the official investigation is ongoing.
Santos-Aviles’s death has shaken the small Uvalde community, still grieving the 2022 mass shooting at Robb Elementary School. Friends and family described her as a bright presence and a steady hand for those around her.
“She was always working for others,” one family friend said. “Her heart was with her son and with her hometown.”
Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.