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Selena Quintanilla, famously referred to as the “Queen of Tejano” was fatally shot and killed by Yolanda Saldivar. She was popular since her music expanded the audience for Texan – Mexican music. Selena's album, Selena Live! Won a Grammy in 1994, making her the first Tejano artist to win such a prestigious award. Selena became a global sensation despite Tejano being a male dominated space and at the time, promoters thought a female artist could not attract huge crowds like the men do.
Yolanda Saldivar, the woman sentenced to life in prison for killing Selena has been denied parole by the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles said Thursday. Saldivar was eligible for parole after 30 years and was expecting parole on March 30th this year. "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 Saldivar and set her next parole review for March 2030," the Board of Pardons and Parole said in a statement.
After Saldivar was denied parole, Selena’s family took to social media to express their gratitude, writing, “Today, we are grateful that the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles has chosen to deny parole for Yolanda Saldivar. 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.”
Her family went ahead to write a tribute, claiming Selena’s legacy is one of love, music and inspiration. Selena lived with joy, gave selflessly and continues to uplift generations with her voice and spirit. They concluded the statement by writing, “We thank Selena’s fans for the unwavering support throughout the years. Your love has been a source of strength and healing. We will continue to celebrate Selena’s life – not the tragedy that took her away from us – and we ask those who cherish her do the same.”
