Death of Texas Rep. Gonzales Staffer Regina Santos-Aviles ruled the decision to kill herself
– For todayNow you can listen to FOX news headlines!
This story is about suicide. If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, please contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-Talk (8255).
The cause of death was determined in the case of Regina Santos-Aviles, STAFFER of the Republican rep. Tony Gonales of Texas who died after an incident where he started a fire in his home in September.
Santos-Aviles’ death was ruled a suicide by self-inflicted wounds, according to Texas Public Radio, citing the Bexar County coroner’s office.
He was found severely burned on his back late September night after responding to reports of a disturbance at around 9:30 PM, said the official.
Left: Regina Santos Aviles; Right: Rep. Tony Gonazes, R-Texas, is seen at the US Capitol before the house voted to keep the government funded in March, Jan. 18, 2024. (Left: Right: Regina Santos Aviles on Facebook; Right: Tom Williams / CQ-Roll Phone, Inc Via Getty Images)
Staffer for House Republican Rep. Tony Gonales dies after fire incident: ‘We are devastated by the loss’
Paramedics transported him to Broke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, where he died early the next morning, September 14.
Santos-Aviles worked as a district director in the Congressman’s district, he LinkedIn profile it shows.
In an interview Thursday at the Texas Tribune Festival, Gonzales said he did not yet know the exact circumstances of his death.
Reps (Tom Williams / CQ-Roll call, Inc Via Images)
Uvaldde’s new body video captures parents pleading with police during the 70-minute delay
“I don’t know exactly what happened,” Gonzales told KSAT.com. “No one has touched me; I have never touched anyone.”
“I’m waiting for the final report,” he added. “I think that would make a lot of sense.”
Gonzales asked that people remember Santos-aviles for his dedication to his community.
“I would hope that everyone remembers him for his love, for his work, for his commitment to the community,” she said.
He proved himself by helping several initiatives, including school safety, a new health center in Uvalde, and a community center in Natalia.
In a statement to FOX News Digital in September, Gonzalees paid tribute to his past.
REP. Tony Gonales, R-Texas, walks down the House floor after votes on Jan. 12, 2023. Gonzales said Tonales said he hopes everyone remembers his passion and his commitment to the community. (Bill Clark / CQ-Roll call, Inc Via Images)
Click here for the FOX News app
“We are devastated by the loss of Regina Santos-Aviles, who was a valuable member of our team and a wonderful community leader,” Gonzale said. “The contributions he made to his beloved community of Uvaldde and the surrounding area will never be forgotten.”
Valde Historian Homer Delgado previously said there was no sign of foul play.
FOX News’ Alex Nitzberg contributed to this report.
