Selena Quintanilla Family Release Statement After Yolanda Saldívar Denied Parole
Selena Quintanilla’s killer has been denied parole and her family is speaking out about the decision. Chris Pérez, the widower of the late queen of Tejano music, also responded to news about Yolanda Saldívar staying in prison for the 1995 murder.
Just as Selena was getting ready to cross over into the pop mainstream, she was tragically murdered on March 31, 1995. In October of that year, Saldívar was found guilty for her death. Saldívar was sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole in 30 years. Earlier this year, she began the process of filing for parole.
On Thursday evening (March 27), Saldívar was denied parole by the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles. In a statement, the board ruled that she will stay behind bars due to her “conscious disregard for the lives, safety, or property of others, such that the offender poses a continuing threat to public safety.” Saldívar will be eligible for parole again in March 2030.
Selena’s family, who have continued to keep her legacy alive, released a statement about Saldívar being denied parole. Pérez, who Selena was married to before her death, also signed the family’s heartfelt message to her fans.
“Today, we are grateful that the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles has chosen to deny parole for Yolanda Saldívar,” the family and Pérez shared in a post on the Selena social media accounts. “While nothing can bring Selena back, this decision reaffirms that justice continues to stand for the beautiful life that was taken from us and the millions of fans around the world far too soon. 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 Selena’s family mentioned, in the nearly 30 years since her death, the singer’s music and legacy have continued to endure. In addition to reaffirming their commitment to “preserving [Selena’s] memory,” they also thanked her fans for celebrating her life beyond the circumstances of her murder.
“We thank Selena’s fans for their unwavering support throughout the years,” Selena’s family added. “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 those who cherish her do the same.”
