The family of a Texas woman who died after reportedly dousing herself in gasoline and catching fire claims it was just an accident. Regina Santos-Aviles, who worked for US Rep. Tony Gonzales, was alone in her backyard in Uvalde, on September 13, 2025, when the fire broke out. First responders rushed her to a hospital, but she succumbed to her injuries the following day. The investigation into her death could take weeks, but her loved ones stand by their assertion that her death wasn’t suicide.
Police and firefighters responded to a call around 9:30 p.m. about a disturbance at Santos-Aviles’ home, KSAT reported. First responders reportedly found the 35-year-old mother engulfed in flames on her front porch. Paramedics airlifted her to San Antonio for treatment, but she died less than 12 hours after arriving at the hospital.
A family member told the news station that Santos-Aviles’ death was an accident. “Her last words were, ‘I don’t want to die,’” the family member told KSAT.
According to her obituary, Santos-Aviles had a winning smile and loved to laugh.
“At her core, Regina was a woman of heart and service. She cared deeply for her community and was always willing to step in and help. Whether through her work or through the simple kindness she showed each day, Regina had a way of making others feel seen, valued, and supported,” her obituary reads.
She leaves behind a husband and young son.
“Her greatest pride and joy was her son, Axel. Every decision she made and every dream she pursued was rooted in her love for him. She was a devoted mother, a loving daughter, sister, and wife, and a loyal friend whose presence will be deeply missed,” the obituary continues.
According to KSAT, Uvalde police are awaiting final reports from the Texas DPS Crime Laboratory and the medical examiner’s office.
