Yolanda Saldívar’s parole has been denied.
Saldívar was convicted of killing Tejano singer Selena Quintanilla-Perez and sentenced to life in prison. On Thursday, March 27, the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles ruled to deny her petition.
“After a thorough consideration of all available information, which included any confidential interviews conducted, it was the parole panel’s determination to deny parole to Yolanda Saldívar,” the board wrote in a statement. “The reason provided by the panel for denial was the Nature of the Offense: The record indicates that the instant offense has elements of brutality, violence, assaultive behavior or conscious selection of victims’s vulnerability indicating a conscious disregard for the lives, safety, or property of others, such that the offender poses a continuing threat to public safety.”
Chris Pérez, Selena’s widower, and her family said in a joint statement after hearing the news, “While nothing can bring Selena back, this decision reaffirms that justice continues to stand for the beautiful life that was taken from us and from millions of fans around the world far too soon,” the statement read. “Selena’s legacy is one of love, music, and inspiration. She lived with joy, gave selflessly, and continues to uplift generations with her voice and her spirit.”
The statement continued, “As her family and loved ones, we remain committed to preserving her memory and ensuring that her story is honored with the dignity and respect it deserves. We thank Selena’s fans for their unwavering support throughout the years. Your love has been a source of strength and healing. We will continue to celebrate Selena’s life – not the tragedy that took her from us – and we ask that all who cherish her do the same.”
Yolanda Saldívar was the president of Selena’s fan club and was working for her clothing company, Selena Etc, until she was fired in March 1995 after she was accused of stealing money from Selena’s stores. Once, Selena tried to meet up with Saldívar to pick up some paperwork, but she was fatally shot with a .38-caliber revolver in the back.
Selena was rushed to the hospital, where she later died. Saldívar was found guilty of first-degree murder. Her next parole review is set for 2030.