John Beam, a staple in the Oakland community and widely recognized athletic director and former football coach at Laney College, was the victim of a shooting on the college campus that has left the city in shock. According to a KRON4 report, Beam, who had a rich history with Oakland sports, including being featured in the Netflix series "Last Chance U," succumbed to his injuries a day after the shooting, at the age of 66. The suspected shooter, Cedric Irving Jr., who was reported to have frequented the campus but was not a student, was arrested in connection with the crime.
Following the tragic event, tributes poured in for Coach Beam, with notable figures like the Portland Trailblazers' Damian Lillard expressing grief and lauding Beam as a "true Oakland legend." In addition, Nahshon Wright of the Chicago Bears, a former player under Beam, attributed his recent game success to the late coach, telling KRON4, "He was watching over me." Wright's statement serves as a reminder of Beam's extensive influence across the athletic and educational communities.
The details surrounding the shooting remain under investigation. The Oakland Police Department, as reported by People, has alleged that the shooting was "targeted," though the nature of Irving's and Beam's connection is undetermined. During a press conference, Assistant Chief James Beere pointed out that while their relationship was not close, Beam was known to extend a helping hand to many in the community. Irving is currently being held at the Alameda County jail without bail.
