On Thursday, March 27, the family of the late Selena Quintanilla-Perez conveyed their profound gratitude upon learning that her murderer, Yolanda Saldívar, had been denied parole. In an emotional Instagram post shared on Selena's official account shortly after the parole board's ruling, her beloved ones penned, "Today, our hearts are filled with thankfulness as the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles has rightfully denied parole to Yolanda Saldívar." They further emphasized, "While the irreplaceable loss of Selena can never be mended, this decision underscores the enduring quest for justice in honor of the radiant life that was prematurely snatched from us and millions of fans worldwide."
Selena's family depicted her "legacy" as a beacon of love, music, and inspiration, highlighting that the "Bidi Bidi Bom Bom" chanteuse "lived with boundless joy, gave generously, and continues to elevate generations through her enchanting voice and indomitable spirit." They pledged, "As her family and cherished ones, we remain steadfast in preserving her memory and ensuring her narrative is esteemed with the dignity and respect it undeniably deserves."
The statement culminated with heartfelt appreciation towards the fans for their "unyielding support over the years," stating, "Your love has served as a cornerstone of strength and healing. We shall continue to celebrate the vibrant life of Selena – not the悲剧 that robbed us of her – and we implore all who hold her dear to do the same."
In a statement dispatched to PEOPLE on Thursday afternoon, the Texas Board of Pardons and Parole elucidated, "After a meticulous evaluation of all pertinent information, inclusive of confidential interviews, the parole panel has determined to deny parole to Yolanda Saldívar and has scheduled her next parole review for March 2030." The board cited the "nature of the offense" as the basis for its decision, elaborating, "The record reveals that the instant offense encompasses elements of brutality, violence, aggressive conduct, or a deliberate exploitation of the victim's vulnerability, suggesting a blatant disregard for the lives, safety, or property of others, thereby posing a persistent threat to public safety."
Saldívar, now aged 64, callously ended the life of Selena at a Days Inn in Corpus Christi, Texas, on March 31, 1995. At the time, Saldívar, who served as the manager of Selena's clothing boutiques, Selena Etc., and the founder and president of her fan club, had just been terminated by Selena's family for allegedly forging checks to embezzle over $30,000 from the fan club and boutiques. Selena had ventured to the motel room to retrieve business records necessary for tax filings, as per court testimony reported by the Associated Press. Saldívar, however, drew a gun and shot Selena in the back as she attempted to flee. Rushed to a nearby hospital, Selena succumbed to excessive blood loss and cardiac arrest.
For nine harrowing hours, Saldívar sat in her truck, threatening suicide before ultimately surrendering to authorities. Prior to the parole board's decision, Carlos Valdez, the former Nueces County District Attorney who prosecuted the high-profile case, told KHOU that granting Saldívar parole would constitute "a grave error," asserting, "One can only imagine the repercussions if she is released. Based on my observations thus far, I firmly believe that granting her parole would be a monumental mistake. I genuinely think the safest place for Yolanda is where she currently resides."
