Selena and Yolanda Saldivar
Selena Quintanilla-Pérez, known simply as Selena, was one of the most beloved and influential Latin artists of all time. Her music, style, and charisma captivated millions of fans around the world. But her life was tragically cut short on March 31, 1995, when she was murdered by Yolanda Saldívar, her former fan club president and boutique manager.
Saldívar, who was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison, has been behind bars for more than 26 years. However, she could soon walk free, as she has met the criteria for a parole hearing, according to a report by The Messenger.
The report cites a statement from a spokesperson at the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ), which says Saldívar has no blemishes on her record that will keep the board from holding a hearing to determine whether to release her. The statement also says that Saldivar has not yet requested a parole hearing, but she can do so at any time.
Courtesy of Texas Department of Criminal Justice
According to the TDCJ website, parole eligibility is determined by several factors, such as the type and severity of the offense, the amount of time served, the behavior and participation in rehabilitation programs of the offender, and the risk of reoffending. The final decision is made by a board of parole commissioners, who consider the input of victims, law enforcement, and other parties.
The Messenger report also quotes a family member of Saldívar that despite having a target on her back, the 62-year-old inmate has had no disciplinary infractions in the past 10 years and is aware of how that affects her parole eligibility. She was convicted of first-degree murder and is currently serving a life sentence at the Mountain View Unit, a maximum-security women’s prison in Gatesville, Texas, with the possibility of parole on March 30, 2025.
Selena’s fans have expressed their outrage and disbelief at the possibility of Saldivar’s release. Many have taken to social media to voice their opinions and share their memories of the late singer. Some have even started online petitions to urge the parole board to deny Saldivar’s request.
Selena’s legacy lives on through her music, which continues to inspire and entertain generations of listeners. She has been honored with numerous awards and recognitions, including a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a wax figure at Madame Tussauds, and a Netflix series based on her life. She is widely regarded as the “Queen of Tejano music” and one of the most influential Latin artists of all time.
Follow Tejano Nation on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and subscribe to our YouTube channel to keep up with everything Tejano. Listen to new Tejano music first with our Spotify playlists and iHeartRadio podcast.