A Texas congressman's regional director died after setting herself on fire at her Uvalde home in a tragic incident that has raised questions about local police handling.
Regina Santos-Aviles, 35, poured gasoline on herself and caught fire at her residence on September 13, according to the Daily Mail. She was airlifted to a San Antonio hospital, where she died the following day.
Santos-Aviles had served as regional district director for Texas Republican Rep. Tony Gonzales since 2021. The married mother of one was separated from her husband at the time of the incident.
Tragic Final Moments
Uvalde police believe Santos-Aviles was alone in her backyard when the self-immolation occurred. Investigators have not yet determined the official cause of death, while autopsy results remain pending.
Her mother, Nora Gonzales, revealed heartbreaking details about her daughter's final words. "The last thing she said is, 'I don't want to die,'" the grieving mother told reporters.
Santos-Aviles is survived by her husband, Adrian, and their son, Axel. Her obituary described her as a devoted mother, daughter, sister, wife, and loyal friend to her community.
Political Fallout and Canceled Events
Following Santos-Aviles' death, Rep. Gonzales canceled scheduled media appearances and public events. Media representatives were disinvited from an event where Gonzales was scheduled to appear on September 22 at Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio.
Gonzales' office issued a statement expressing condolences for their deceased colleague. "We are all heart-stricken by the recent news. Regina devoted her profession toward making a difference in her community," the statement read.
The congressman's sudden withdrawal from public events has intensified scrutiny surrounding the incident. Questions have emerged about the relationship between Gonzales and local law enforcement officials.
Police Chief Controversy
Uvalde city councilman Ernest Santos has criticized the close relationship between Police Chief Homer Delgado and Rep. Gonzales. Santos specifically questioned Delgado's endorsement of Gonzales during his re-election campaign.
"And unfortunately, look at what happened. Here we have a chief of police endorsing this candidate, and we have this happen with an employee of Tony Gonzales," Santos stated. He emphasized the need for law enforcement neutrality in political matters.
Following the criticism, Gonzales' campaign removed promotional materials highlighting the police chief's endorsement. The controversy has added another layer of complexity to the tragic incident investigation.
Ongoing Investigation and Unanswered Questions
Police records related to the incident have been withheld from public release, creating additional questions about transparency. The lack of available information has frustrated family members and community leaders seeking answers.
Gonzales represents a sprawling congressional district that includes San Antonio, Uvalde, and extends west to El Paso. His district has faced previous scrutiny following the tragic school shooting in Uvalde that claimed multiple lives.
The withholding of police records and canceled media events have fueled speculation about potential complications in the case. Community members continue to demand transparency as the investigation proceeds through official channels.
