Ala. Rep. Beck dies at Montgomery hotel

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) - State Rep. Warren Beck (R) of Geneva has died at the Montgomery hotel where he was staying while attending the Legislature.

A spokesman for the speaker of the House says legislative officials were notified that Beck was found in his room at the Embassy Suites about 3 p.m. Wednesday.

Spokesman Jeff Woodard said the cause of death was not immediately available.

"Patsy and I were saddened to learn of Rep. Beck's sudden passing. He was a dedicated lawmaker," said Governor Bob Riley after learning the news. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the Beck family during this difficult time."

The 65-year-old representative was a former mayor of Geneva and was first elected to the Legislature in 2002.

"We are shocked and saddened by the news of Rep. Beck's death, and extend our sincerest sympathies to his family," said ALGOP Chairman Rep. Mike Hubbard. "Warren worked tirelessly for the people of his district and was a devoted legislator, as well as a friend – he will be missed."

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