New to Pano? Start here

Mar 28th, 2025, 1:21 AM ET·Entertainment

Yolanda Saldívar Denied Parole for Murder of Selena Quintanilla-Pérez

Yolanda Saldívar, convicted of murdering Selena, is denied parole after the Texas Board finds she poses a safety threat, with her next parole eligibility in 2030.


Summary

A summary of the key points of this story verified across multiple sources.

Yolanda Saldívar, serving a life sentence for the 1995 murder of Tejano star Selena Quintanilla-Pérez, has been denied parole for the first time. The Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles cited her as a continuing threat to public safety as the reason for the decision. Selena's family and husband, Chris Pérez, expressed gratitude for the ruling. Saldívar, who shot Selena over financial disputes, had her trial moved to Houston due to significant media attention. She will be considered for parole again in March 2030.

Sources (5)

Compare coverage of this story from news outlets across the political spectrum.
  • The Guardian
  • CNN
  • Saldívar's denial of parole is seen as a necessary measure to honor the memory of Selena, who was a pivotal figure in Tejano music and a source of inspiration for many.
  • Public sentiment remains strong against Saldívar, with many reflecting on the tragic circumstances of Selena's death and the loss felt by her fans and family.
  • The parole board's decision also emphasizes Saldívar's ongoing legal struggles while imprisoned, showcasing her attempts at reform and the complexities of the justice system.
Woman convicted of killing ‘Queen of Tejano’ Selena in 1995 denied parole
The GuardianThe Guardian·2M·
Leans Left
This outlet slightly leans left.

"…The singer known to her fans as simply Selena was one of the first Mexican Americans to make it into the mainstream music scene and was on the verge of crossing over into the English-language pop market when she was killed."

Selena’s killer, Yolanda Saldívar, has been denied parole
CNNCNN·2M·
Leans Left
This outlet slightly leans left.

"…Selena was one of the first Mexican-Americans to make it into the mainstream music scene and was on the verge of crossing over into the English-language pop market when she was killed."

FAQ

A list of follow-up questions readers often ask about this story.

No FAQs available for this story.