Rep. Tony Gonzalez Addresses Rumors Following Staffer’s Death

In his first comments since the tragic passing of Regina Santos-Avilés in September, Rep. Tony Gonzalez (R-Texas) criticized rumors suggesting that she had an affair with a congressional aide prior to her self-immolation, calling them “absolutely false.”

Representing Texas’ 23rd District, which encompasses parts of southwest Texas, Gonzalez denied any romantic involvement with the 35-year-old Santos-Avilés.

While attending the Texas Tribune Festival in Austin, he was quoted saying, “The rumors are completely false and Regina’s family requests privacy,” as reported by the San Antonio Current.

He acknowledged the harshness of politics, stating, “You have to have a thick skin… people are throwing rocks at me and saying really bad things because my name is on the door.” It’s a reality that some might find difficult to navigate.

Gonzalez, a father of six, had avoided public commentary on the rumors until this week, despite media outlets frequently omitting details about the allegations. In October, reports hinted at the chaos surrounding the situation.

His office emphasized that “Regina Aviles was a kind-hearted person who had a lasting impact on her community.” She had served as a regional director in Gonzalez’s office since November 2021.

Reportedly, the Bexar County coroner ruled her death a suicide this week.

Gonzalez stated he is awaiting further findings from authorities to rule out any criminal implications before elaborating on the incident. “I don’t know exactly what happened,” he mentioned, expressing uncertainty about the situation and his lack of trust in media portrayals.

Santos-Avilés tragically ignited in flames after being “doused with gasoline” in her backyard in Uvalde, Texas, on September 13. Her mother found her severely burned and in distress. Firefighters eventually extinguished the flames and the burning gasoline can.

She succumbed to her injuries the following day at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, with her mother recalling that Santos-Avilés’s last words were, “I don’t want to die.” Nora Gonzalez noted that her daughter had reached out, visibly distraught, asking for her 8-year-old son just before the incident.

The family has firmly rejected claims reported by the Daily Mail that Santos-Avilés was separating from her husband and involved with Gonzalez, labeling those assertions as “completely false.” The grieving mother expressed confusion over why her daughter was treated in such a horrific manner, stating, “I don’t think there’s any benefit” to spreading those rumors.

If someone in New York City is grappling with suicidal thoughts or facing a mental health crisis, they can contact 1-888-NYC-WELL for free, confidential counseling. Outside the city, the National Suicide Prevention Hotline is available at 988 or through their website.