Selena. Photo: Vinnie Zuffante/Getty Images
Selena Quintanilla’s family is “grateful” that Selena’s killer, Yolanda Saldívar, was denied parole. “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,” a statement shared in both English and Spanish reads. “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.” Saldívar was denied parole by the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles on March 27 until 2030, at which point her case will be reconsidered. “We thank Selena’s fans for their unwavering support throughout the years,” the family’s statement continued. “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.”
Saldívar shot and killed the Tejano music icon in 1995 in Corpus Christi, Texas. The 64-year-old is currently serving life in prison. “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 Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles said of the decision. “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.”
