Selena’s Killer Yolanda Saldívar Denied Parole, Late Singer's Family 'Grateful' for Decision

The woman convicted of killing Selena Quintanilla-Perez will remain behind bars for at least another five years. 

Thirty years after the Tejano legend’s fatal shooting, the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles voted to deny Yolanda Saldívar’s parole petition. Officials announced the decision on Thursday, March 27, shedding more light on their reasoning. 

“After a thorough consideration of all available information, which included any confidential interviews conducted, it was the parole panels determination to deny parole to Yolanda Saldivar,” 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 victim’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.”

Selena’s widower, Chris Pérez, responded to the news on social media, saying he and his family were “grateful” for the board’s decision.

“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 continues: “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.”

As a founder of Selena’s fan club, Saldívar began working for the singer’s clothing company, Selena Etc. She was terminated in March 1995 after being accused of stealing money from Selena’s boutiques. Weeks later, Selena agreed to meet with Saldívar at a Corpus Christi motel to pick up financial documents. It was at that time when Saldívar pulled out a .38-caliber revolver and shot Selena in the back. The singer was rushed to a nearby hospital, where she was pronounced dead.

Saldívar was found guilty of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison. Her next parole review is set for 2030.