Selena Quintanilla‘s killer will not be freed anytime soon. On Thursday, the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles announced that Yolanda Saldívar, who killed Selena in 1995, was denied parole after becoming eligible for review this month.
“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 and set her next parole review for March 2030,” the statement read.
The panel — comprising three people — cited the “nature of the offense” as the reason for denying Saldívar’s early release. “The record indicates that the instant offense has elements of brutality, violence, assaultive behavior or conscious selection of the 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,” the statement added.
In a statement to Rolling Stone, Selena’s family and partner Chris Pérez shared their gratitude for the 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,” they wrote. “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. 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.”
Saldívar’s eligibility date for parole review was March 30, 2025, marking 30 years since the killing of Selena. According to the board, Saldívar’s case included offense reports, court documents, statements provided by the offender, and other information.
Saldívar was convicted of murdering Selena after shooting the singer once in the back in a Corpus Christi hotel room on March 31, 1995. Saldívar was working as both the president of Selena’s fan club and as the manager of her line of clothing boutiques, Selena, Etc. The shooting occurred after Selena confronted Saldívar with claims that she had been embezzling money from Selena’s business ventures.
Saldívar has maintained that she shot Selena by accident and that she planned to use the gun on herself. In a recent interview for “Selena and Yolanda: The Secrets Between Them,” which was released last year, Saldívar disputed the embezzlement claims. She argued instead that she was ready to stop working for Selena and that the singer was trying to convince her to stay during their confrontation.
Yolanda Saldívar, the woman convicted of murdering Tejano music icon Selena Quintanilla in 1995, will remain behind bars. Her parole application was denied by the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles on March 27, 2025, a decision met with relief by Selena’s family and fans worldwide. This comes nearly 30 years after the tragic shooting that shocked the world and left an enduring mark on the music industry.
The Crime and Its Aftermath
On March 31, 1995, Saldívar, then president of Selena’s fan club and manager of her boutiques, shot and killed the 23-year-old singer at a Corpus Christi motel. The murder followed Selena’s discovery of Saldívar’s embezzlement of funds from her business. Saldívar was subsequently sentenced to life imprisonment with the possibility of parole after serving 30 years. The brutal nature of the crime and the devastating loss of a beloved star ensured that Saldívar’s case remained a highly publicized and emotionally charged event.
The Parole Decision and Public Reaction
The parole board’s decision cited the violent nature of the crime and Saldívar’s continued threat to public safety. Selena’s family expressed their gratitude for the board’s ruling in a heartfelt social media post, emphasizing that while nothing can bring Selena back, the denial of parole affirms justice. The decision aligns with the sentiments of many, given the significant impact Selena’s death had on millions of fans around the globe.
Fear of Retribution
Reports indicate that Saldívar’s continued imprisonment is partly due to concerns for her safety. Former inmates have revealed that the intense hatred surrounding her crime creates a dangerous environment, with many expressing a desire for revenge. This underscores the enduring legacy of the crime and the deep emotional connection fans continue to maintain with Selena’s memory.
Selena’s Enduring Legacy
Selena’s untimely death solidified her status as a legendary figure in music history. Her vibrant personality and remarkable talent continue to inspire generations. This tragic event, however, serves as a constant reminder of the devastating consequences of violence. The denial of parole for Yolanda Saldívar represents a significant step in ensuring justice for Selena and preserving her memory.
Looking Ahead
Yolanda Saldívar’s next parole review is scheduled for March 2030. The decision highlights the ongoing impact of this case and the importance of remembering Selena’s life and legacy—a legacy that continues to shine brightly despite the darkness of her tragic end.