Man Accused in Family’s Arson Death to Stand Trial

A man accused of setting a 1996 blaze in Glendale that killed his wife and six children was declared Thursday to be competent to stand trial.

The decision by Pasadena Superior Court Judge Janice Croft means that barring further delay, Jorjik Avanesian, 42, could face trial within 60 days for arson and seven counts of murder.

If convicted, Avanesian could face the death penalty.

“He is able to assist his defense counsel in presenting a defense and he understands the charges against him in the proceedings,” said Deputy Dist. Atty. Kevin McCormick, who successfully argued that Avanesian was competent.

Seven months after the fire, the Judge Croft had judge ruled that Avanesian was mentally ill and not able to stand trial, and he was sent to a mental hospital.

The reversal of the original decision was based on progress reports issued by court-appointed psychiatrists, said Sandi Gibbons, spokeswoman for the Los Angeles district attorney’s office.

Avanesian pleaded not guilty to all charges.

The fire in a one-bedroom apartment took place on Feb. 6, 1996. A man who tried to rescue the family members told a grand jury that Avanesian stood near the apartment building, ignoring his family’s screams and desperate pleas.

Killed in the blaze were Turan Avanesian, 37, and her six children, who ranged in age from 4 to 17.

Defense attorney Stanley Perlo could not be reached for comment.

Jorjik Avanesian is being held at the Twin Towers jail in Los Angeles.