Regina Santos-Aviles Set Herself on Fire. Why?

By SyndicatedNews | SNN.BZ

In September of 2025, Regina Ann “Regi” Santos-Aviles, a 35-year-old congressional staffer, died after setting herself on fire in her backyard, leaving a shocked community searching for answers about mental health or a possible accident. The Regina Santos-Aviles fire incident remains under investigation. See reports from San Antonio Express-News, KSAT, and Uvalde Leader-News.

Regina Santos-Aviles: Dedicated Congressional Staffer

Regina Santos-Aviles, regional director for Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-Texas) since 2021, served Texas’ 23rd District with dedication. A mother to her eight-year-old son, Regina Santos-Aviles was admired for her community work in Uvalde. Rep. Gonzales called the Regina Santos-Aviles death a “tragic loss” Fox News. Why did Regina Santos-Aviles set herself on fire? The Independent.

The Night Regina Santos-Aviles Set Herself on Fire

At 9:30 p.m., a 911 call reported distress at Regina Santos-Aviles’ Uvalde home. Her mother, Nora Ann Gonzales, found her in flames after a distraught call about her son. Regina Santos-Aviles used gasoline, confirmed by surveillance showing her alone San Antonio Express-News. Responders airlifted her to San Antonio, but she died at 6:30 a.m. on September 14, saying, “I don’t want to die” People Magazine. The Texas Rangers are investigating the Regina Santos-Aviles death KSAT.

Regina Santos-Aviles Fire: Accident or Mental Health Crisis?

Was the Regina Santos-Aviles fire an accident? Her mother insists it was, citing a nearby hose Daily Mail Online. Yet, the act suggests distress. No records show Regina Santos-Aviles under psychiatric care or acting combative. Uvalde’s 2022 Robb Elementary shooting trauma may have contributed, with high PTSD rates noted (San Antonio Current; Times Now).

Regina Santos-Aviles Death Investigation Ongoing

The Regina Santos-Aviles fire investigation awaits toxicology results. Uvalde Police promise transparency KSAT. Rep. Gonzales canceled events, citing grief Daily Mail Online. The Regina Santos-Aviles death highlights mental health needs in rural communities.

For crisis support, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988. May Regina Santos-Aviles rest in peace.