Selena's life was cut tragically short on March 31, 1995, when she was shot and killed by Yolanda Saldívar, the president of her fan club and manager of her boutiques, in Corpus Christi, Texas. The murder shocked and devastated her fans and the Latin music community, and it remains one of the most high-profile celebrity murders in American history.
Here's a timeline of the events leading up to Selena's death:
1. 1991: Selena's popularity skyrockets after her album "Ven Conmigo" becomes the best-selling Latin album of all time.
2. 1992: Selena releases her self-titled album, which further cements her status as a rising star in the music industry.
3. 1993: Selena launches her first clothing line, "Selena Etc.", and opens her first boutique in Corpus Christi.
4. 1994: Selena's album "Amor Prohibido" becomes the best-selling Latin album of the decade, solidifying her position as the "Queen of Tejano music."
5. 1995: Selena's popularity continues to grow, and she embarks on a successful tour of Latin America.
6. March 31, 1995: Selena meets with Saldívar at the Days Inn motel in Corpus Christi to retrieve financial records. Saldívar delays handing over the records, and an argument ensues.
7. During the argument, Saldívar pulls out a gun and shoots Selena in the back. Selena manages to run to the lobby of the motel for help, but she collapses and dies from her injuries.
8. Saldívar is arrested and charged with murder. She is convicted and sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole in 2025.
Selena's death was a devastating loss for her fans and the music industry as a whole. She left behind a lasting legacy as a talented singer, songwriter, and fashion icon who inspired countless people with her music and her personal story.