Archinect - News

Architect to plead "no contest" in Los Angeles firefighter's death

2014-01-03T14:39:00-05:00

A German architect accused of improperly installing a fireplace in his Hollywood Hills mansion, leading to a firefighter’s death in February 2011, is expected to plead guilty to involuntary manslaughter Friday.

Architect, Gerhard Becker, is accused of involuntary manslaughter in Los Angeles in the death of a firefighter in February 2011. He is expected to plead "no contest" and serve a 6 month long sentence.

Becker was accused of constructing fireplaces in a 12,000 square foot residence in the Hollywood Hills despite having filed drawing that showed otherwise. Prosecutors allege that he did so after final inspections in November 2010.

Investigators determined that the fire was a result of several gas exterior fire pits that were installed inside. A fire broke out and several responding firefighter were pinned when the ceiling collapsed, resulting in one death.

Architect accused in firefighter's death to face trial

2012-11-30T12:29:00-05:00

A German architect charged with involuntary manslaughter in connection with the death of a veteran firefighter last year will next appear in court Dec. 12, authorities say. A judge ruled Wednesday that Gerhard Becker will face trial in the case. Prosecutors allege he negligently installed outdoor fireplaces at his Hollywood Hills home, a decision they say ultimately led to the death of firefighter Glenn Allen.

Previously:
Architect charged for the death of a firefighter
AIA|LA Statement on Tragic Death of LA Firefighter

AIA|LA Statement on Tragic Death of LA Firefighter

2012-02-28T17:35:00-05:00

Last week's LA Times article, "Architect of Hollywood Hills mansion damaged in fire, is charged in firefighter's death," stirred discussion, particularly among architects, as the individual who designed the home was not a licensed architect. Aside from requesting that the LA Times retract the word "architect" from the article, the [AIA|LA], in conjunction with [AIACC] Executive Vice President, Paul Welch, Hon. AIA, have released the following statement...

Previously: Architect charged for the death of a firefighter

Statement from AIA|LA...

Editor,

The recent Los Angeles Times article concerning the negligent activities of an individual purporting to be an architect, and how those activities resulted in the tragic death of Los Angeles Firefighter Glenn Allen, serve to remind us all that the profession of architecture is about much more than aesthetics.

The profession of architecture is carefully regulated in the state of California by the California Architects Board (CAB). While the title of "architect" is easily understood by the public, unfortunately, we find many examples of misuse of the term. Despite the Los Angeles Police Department, Fire Department, Building Department, and District Attorney's Office identifying Gehard Albert Becker as an architect, and Mr. Becker identifying himself an architect, a query of the California Architects Board's (CAB) records confirms that Mr. Becker is not, nor was he ever, licensed to p...

Architect charged for the death of a firefighter

2012-02-15T16:23:00-05:00

[Gerhard Albert] Becker... built an 18-foot "fire trough" through the home despite being warned of the dangers it may cause. It was described as an oversize indoor fire pit. They said the attic was equipped with plastic pipes for fire sprinklers. The fire melted the pipes, flooding the attic and filling the insulation with water. The weight of the insulation appears to have caused a large section of the ceiling to collapse, injuring Allen and five other firefighters,

This seems to be a case of incompetence and stupidity tied to trying to save a few pennies. PVC pipe for fire sprinklers - might as well revoke his license already. But how can an architect afford a 12,500 sf house in the Hollywood Hills?

oh, 'The home was intended for use in a reality show for German TV starring Heidi Klum in a knockoff of "America's Next Top Model."'

Even better, Becker was arrested at LAX on Feb 11th...