Uvalde, Texas, December 26, 2025
The Texas Attorney General’s Office has decided to keep records regarding the death of Regina Santos-Aviles, a congressional staffer, sealed from public access. This decision follows a request from news agencies to obtain 911 calls, police reports, and video footage related to her death, which has been ruled a suicide by self-immolation. Family members contest this finding, asserting it was an accident. The investigation continues as the community seeks answers and clarity in this tragic situation.
Uvalde, Texas – December 26, 2025
Texas Attorney General’s Office Rules to Keep Records Sealed in Congresswoman’s Staffer’s Death
The Texas Attorney General’s Office has ruled that 911 calls, police reports, and video footage related to the death of Regina Santos-Aviles, a congressional staffer for U.S. Representative Tony Gonzales, will remain sealed. This decision follows a request from multiple news agencies for access to these records. The ruling cited exceptions that allow law enforcement agencies to withhold records if releasing them could interfere with a criminal investigation or if another law requires confidentiality. The Uvalde Police Department, in collaboration with the Texas Rangers, is investigating the incident, which occurred on September 13, 2025, when Santos-Aviles was found severely burned in her backyard. She was airlifted to Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, where she died the following morning. The Bexar County Medical Examiner ruled her death a suicide by self-immolation. Family members have contested this finding, asserting that her death was accidental. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have not found evidence of foul play. The Attorney General’s Office has not provided further details regarding the case. The decision to keep the records sealed has been met with mixed reactions, with some advocating for transparency and others supporting the protection of sensitive information during the investigation.
Background on Regina Santos-Aviles
Regina Santos-Aviles, 35, served as the Uvalde Regional District Director for Representative Tony Gonzales. She was a devoted mother and had been employed with Gonzales’ office since November 2021. Santos-Aviles was renowned for her dedication to public service and her community. Her untimely death has raised questions and concerns among her family, colleagues, and the public. The investigation into her death continues, with authorities working to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident. The decision to keep related records sealed aims to protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation and ensure that all facts are thoroughly examined before any public disclosure. The community remains hopeful for clarity and justice in this tragic case.
Related Incidents in Texas
Regrettably, this incident is not isolated. In 2006, former Texas State Senator Frank L. Madla died in a house fire in San Antonio. Madla, along with his mother-in-law and granddaughter, perished in the blaze, which was later determined to be accidental. Additionally, in 2025, former U.S. Representative Blake Farenthold passed away from a heart attack in Corpus Christi. Farenthold had resigned from Congress in 2018 amid allegations of sexual harassment. These events highlight the challenges and tragedies that can occur in the lives of public servants and their families. Each case has its unique circumstances, and investigations are conducted to uncover the truth and provide closure to those affected.
Community Response and Support
The community in Uvalde has been profoundly affected by the loss of Regina Santos-Aviles. Local residents have expressed their condolences and support for her family. Memorials and tributes have been organized to honor her memory and contributions to the community. The investigation into her death has prompted discussions about mental health, workplace dynamics, and the pressures faced by individuals in public service roles. Support services have been made available to assist those grieving and to address the broader issues highlighted by this tragedy. The community continues to come together, seeking answers and offering support to those impacted by this loss.
Ongoing Investigation and Future Developments
The investigation into the death of Regina Santos-Aviles is ongoing. Authorities are working diligently to uncover all facts and circumstances surrounding the incident. The decision to keep certain records sealed is intended to protect the integrity of the investigation and ensure that all information is thoroughly reviewed before being made public. The community and the public await further updates, hoping for transparency and justice in this case. As more information becomes available, it will be shared to provide clarity and closure to those affected by this tragic event.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What was the cause of Regina Santos-Aviles’ death?
The Bexar County Medical Examiner ruled her death a suicide by self-immolation. However, family members have contested this finding, asserting that her death was accidental. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have not found evidence of foul play.
Why are the records related to the case being kept sealed?
The Texas Attorney General’s Office ruled that 911 calls, police reports, and video footage related to the death will remain sealed to protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation and to ensure that all facts are thoroughly examined before any public disclosure.
What is the current status of the investigation?
The investigation is ongoing, with authorities working diligently to uncover all facts and circumstances surrounding the incident. The Uvalde Police Department, in collaboration with the Texas Rangers, is leading the investigation. No evidence of foul play has been found, and the community awaits further updates.
How has the community responded to this incident?
The community in Uvalde has been deeply affected by the loss of Regina Santos-Aviles. Local residents have expressed their condolences and support for her family. Memorials and tributes have been organized to honor her memory and contributions to the community. Support services have been made available to assist those grieving and to address the broader issues highlighted by this tragedy.
Are there any similar incidents in Texas history?
Yes, in 2006, former Texas State Senator Frank L. Madla died in a house fire in San Antonio. Madla, along with his mother-in-law and granddaughter, perished in the blaze. The fire was later determined to be accidental. Additionally, in 2025, former U.S. Representative Blake Farenthold passed away from a heart attack in Corpus Christi. These events highlight the challenges and tragedies that can occur in the lives of public servants and their families.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Victim | Regina Santos-Aviles, 35, congressional staffer for U.S. Representative Tony Gonzales |
| Location | Uvalde, Texas |
| Incident Date | September 13, 2025 |
| Cause of Death | Ruled a suicide by self-immolation by the Bexar County Medical Examiner |
| Investigation Status | Ongoing; records related to the case remain sealed to protect the integrity of the investigation |
| Community Response | Deeply affected; memorials and support services organized to honor her memory and assist those grieving |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
San Antonio Driver Arrested After Christmas Eve Incident
Search Underway for Missing 19-Year-Old Camila Olmos in San Antonio
San Antonio Woman Charged with Murder in Shooting Incident
Public Assistance Sought in Identification of Deceased Man in San Antonio
Deputy Injured in Domestic Violence Shootout in San Antonio
Oregon Faces Texas Tech in Must-Watch Orange Bowl Showdown
New Braunfels Tragedy: Fatal Pedestrian Accident on I-35
Chargers Defeat Cowboys to Secure Playoff Position
Authorities Seek Public’s Help in Locating Missing Woman
San Antonio Man Arrested After Allegedly Shooting Father
Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
