The sudden and unexplained death of Regina Santos-Aviles, a congressional staffer for Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-Texas), is under investigation in Uvalde, Texas. The 35-year-old collapsed at her home late on Sept. 13 and was later pronounced dead at a local hospital early the next morning. Authorities have not released a cause of death, and the Bexar County Medical Examiner’s Office continues its review.

Uvalde Police, working with the Texas Rangers, found no immediate signs of foul play. “All unattended deaths are investigated,” Police Chief Homer Delgado said, noting that the family is fully cooperating. Fire officials also confirmed that a small fire had occurred behind the residence, which had been extinguished prior to emergency responders’ arrival.

Santos-Aviles’s mother, Nora Ann Gonzales, told media outlets that her daughter appeared to have caught fire before collapsing. According to her, Regina’s final words were, “I don’t want to die.” Investigators have yet to determine the cause of the blaze, and toxicology and lab results may take weeks to complete.

A devoted mother to her 8-year-old son, Santos-Aviles was widely respected for her commitment to public service. Before joining Rep. Gonzales’s office in 2021, she worked at the Uvalde Chamber of Commerce. As district director, she was responsible for local outreach and constituent services throughout the South Texas district.

Rep. Gonzales paid tribute to her in a statement, saying, “She will always be remembered for her passion towards Uvalde and helping the community become a better place.” Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.