Corrections & clarifications: An earlier version of this report incorrectly stated Yolanda Saldívar’s next parole date. She will be considered for parole again in March 2030.
, the woman who is serving a life sentence in prison for the 1995 murder of Tejano icon Selena Quintanilla-Pérez
, has been denied parole.
On Thursday, the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles issued a press release announcing that a three-person parole panel determined after “thorough consideration” that Saldívar should not be granted release on parole due to the nature of the offense. In 1995, she was convicted on the charge of murder with a deadly weapon.
The panel’s decision was based on her parole review file, which included confidential interviews, court documents, criminal history, information both in support and protest of her parole, “institutional adjustment” and a statement provided by Saldívar.
“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,” the press release stated.
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This was the first time Saldívar was eligible for parole after serving 30 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice-Institutional Division. She will have another chance for a parole review on March 2030, per the press release.
Selena died just shy of her 24th birthday in Corpus Christi, Texas, after Saldívar — the former president of the Selena fan club and a manager of Selena’s clothing boutiques, whom Selena had learned was embezzling money — fatally shot Selena at a Days Inn Hotel.
Selena’s family responds to parole board’s decision: ‘We are grateful’
After the parole board’s decision was made public, Selena’s family and her husband, Chris Pérez, issued
on social media that expressed their gratitude that Saldívar will remain incarcerated.
What to know about Selena Quintanilla,
her killer Yolanda Saldívar denied parole for murder
“Today, we are grateful that the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles has chosen to deny parole for Yolanda Saldívar. 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 began.
“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,” it 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.”
The Quintanilla family and Pérez thanked Selena’s fans “for their unwavering support throughout the years,” calling their love “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,” the message concluded.
(This story has been updated with new information.)
