Last Chance U Coach John Beam Dies After Campus Shooting

Coach John Beam has died after being shot on campus. The incident occurred at Laney Community College in Oakland. He passed away one day after the attack.

Oakland police confirmed an arrest was made. The suspect was known to loiter around the college. Authorities state this was a targeted event.

Police Confirm Targeted Attack and Arrest

Acting Police Chief James Beere addressed the media. He said the suspect was on campus for a specific reason. The shooting was not an active shooter situation.

Officers recovered the firearm used in the incident. The suspect, identified in local reports as Cedric Irving Jr., was arrested quickly. Investigators used surveillance footage to aid their work.

Coach Beam was shot in the head according to local ABC affiliate reports. He was transported to a hospital immediately. His death was announced on Friday.

A Legacy of Mentorship and Community Impact

John Beam served as Laney’s athletic director since 2006. He became head football coach in 2012. He stepped down from coaching just last year.

His team was featured on Netflix’s Last Chance U in 2020. Series creator Greg Whiteley expressed devastation. He called Beam a mentor and lifeline for Oakland’s youth.

Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee released a statement praising Beam. She called him a giant in Oakland and a shaper of leaders. The community is mourning his loss.

The death of Coach John Beam marks a profound loss for Oakland and the sports community. His legacy of mentorship through football will endure. The investigation into this targeted campus shooting continues.

Thought you’d like to know

Who was Coach John Beam?

John Beam was the Athletic Director at Laney College. He was the head football coach featured on Netflix’s Last Chance U. He was a central figure in Oakland sports for over 40 years.

What happened to John Beam?

He was shot on the Laney Community College campus. The incident occurred shortly before noon. He died from his injuries a day later.

Was there an arrest in the case?

Yes, Oakland police made an arrest. The suspect was taken into custody shortly before Beam’s death was announced. Police described the shooting as a targeted incident.

How did the community react?

Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee and Last Chance U creator Greg Whiteley issued heartfelt statements. They highlighted his decades of mentorship. The community is deeply shaken by his death.

What was John Beam’s connection to Netflix?

He and the Laney Eagles football team were the subjects of Last Chance U season five. The docuseries showcased his coaching and mentorship. It aired on Netflix in 2020.