Police in Uvalde, Texas, are investigating the tragic death of a Republican congressional staffer, Regina Santos-Aviles, who died in a fire at her home. Santos-Aviles, 35, succumbed to her injuries Sunday morning after a fire broke out the night before. The Uvalde police, along with the Texas Rangers, are looking into the incident but currently do not suspect foul play.
Santos-Aviles worked for Republican Rep. Tony Gonzales as the Uvalde regional district director. In a heartfelt statement, Gonzales expressed his sorrow over the loss. “We are all heart-stricken by the recent news,” he said. He highlighted Santos-Aviles’s dedication, stating, “Regina devoted her profession toward making a difference in her community. She will always be remembered for her passion for Uvalde and helping the community become a better place.”
The timeline of events began around 9:30 p.m. on September 13 when Santos-Aviles’s mother, Nora Ann Gonzales, called 911 after discovering her daughter engulfed in flames in the backyard of their home. “When we arrived, we learned of a fire behind the residence that had been put out with a fire extinguisher,” reported Mario Rangel, chief of the Uvalde Volunteer Fire Department. Her mother made the frantic call. “It was an accident,” Gonzales said regarding the circumstances surrounding the fire.
Emergency medical services airlifted Santos-Aviles to Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, where she remained conscious during her transport. Before she succumbed to her injuries, her last words were hauntingly clear: “I don’t want to die,” her mother recalled. Santos-Aviles was declared dead early the next morning, leaving behind an 8-year-old son.
Describing her spirit, Gonzales reflected, “She loved life and loved her family and loved everyone and loved doing for others. She loved the work that she did and how she helped the communities get funding for things they needed.” This sentiment underscores the deep sense of loss felt not only by her family but by the entire community. The Bexar County medical examiner is expected to take three to four months to determine the official cause and manner of death.
In light of this unfortunate incident, Uvalde Police Chief Homer Delgado extended his condolences in a statement, saying, “As your Chief of Police, my heart goes out to the family and friends who are grieving. In times of loss, our greatest duty is to stand together, support one another, and honor the memory of those we have lost.”
Santos-Aviles’s life and work made a mark on her community, and her death is a stark reminder of the unpredictability of life and the enduring bonds of family and friendship. As investigations continue, the community will undoubtedly hold onto her memory, cherishing the impact she made during her time with them.
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