The Uvalde community is mourning the heartbreaking death of 35-year-old congressional staffer Regina Santos-Aviles. She was found severely burned outside her home and later died in a San Antonio hospital. Her mother shared her final words: “I don’t want to die.”
Santos-Aviles had served as regional director for Rep. Tony Gonzales since 2021, helping local communities access resources. Gonzales said, “Regina devoted her profession toward making a difference. She will always be remembered for her passion.”

Friends described her as a bright soul with a bold spirit. One remembered, “She could brighten any room.” Another called her “a beautiful soul.” Above all, she was known as a devoted mother to her young son.
Investigators say no foul play is suspected, but the official cause of death is pending. Her passing has left family, friends, and colleagues heartbroken. Yet her legacy of service, strength, and love for Uvalde lives on.
