John Beam, the celebrated football coach known for his role in Netflix’s ‘Last Chance U,’ has died after being shot on the campus of Laney College in Oakland. His death, following a targeted shooting on Thursday, has left the community in mourning and raised concerns about campus safety.
The shooting occurred on Thursday before noon at Laney College, where Beam served as athletic director. Oakland police responded to reports of shots fired and found Beam injured. He was transported to a hospital but succumbed to his injuries on Friday. Authorities have arrested Cedric Irving Jr., who is charged with murder and carrying a concealed weapon. The suspect was taken into custody without incident early Friday morning at a commuter rail station, and a gun was recovered.
John Beam, 66, had a long and influential career in football, joining Laney College in 2004 and becoming head coach in 2012. He led the team to two league titles and was featured in the 2020 season of ‘Last Chance U,’ which highlighted his ability to connect with and mentor players others had overlooked. According to the college’s website, at least 20 of his players went on to the NFL, testament to his coaching prowess.
Police described the shooting as a targeted incident, with the suspect knowing Beam. Cedric Irving Jr. had played football at Skyline High School, where Beam had previously worked, though not at the same time. Irving’s brother expressed shock, noting that Cedric had excelled in high school but faced recent struggles, including job loss and eviction. Charges are pending, and he is scheduled for arraignment on Tuesday.
The news of Beam’s death prompted an outpouring of grief, with vigils held outside the hospital. Mayor Barbara Lee called Beam a ‘giant’ in the community, emphasizing his 40 years of mentoring youth. Former players, including NFL brothers Nahshon and Rejzohn Wright, shared heartfelt tributes on social media, reflecting the deep bonds he formed.
This shooting was the second in two days at an Oakland school, following an incident at Skyline High School where a student was shot and is in stable condition. While not connected, the events underscore the city’s ongoing struggle with gun violence. Beam’s legacy as a mentor and leader is now intertwined with calls for increased safety measures on campuses.
As the legal process unfolds for the suspect, the community continues to mourn and celebrate Beam’s life. His family has requested privacy, while colleagues and friends remember him as a father figure to thousands. The incident has sparked discussions about gun control and community support systems, ensuring that Beam’s impact endures beyond his tragic death.
