Former football coach John Beam, well-known for his role in the Netflix series “Last Chance U,” has tragically passed away after being shot on the campus of Laney College in Oakland, California. The incident occurred just before noon on Thursday, and authorities have arrested a suspect, identified as Cedric Irving Jr., who is believed to have specifically targeted Beam.
Beam, 66, was celebrated for his dedication to helping players who others overlooked, and his death has deeply affected the community. Vigils were held outside the hospital where he was treated, with many remembering him as a person who always provided support and mentorship. Oakland Assistant Chief James Beere stated that the shooting was a targeted act, though the exact nature of the relationship between Beam and the suspect has not been fully disclosed. It is known, however, that the suspect had previously played football at a high school where Beam was employed.
Irving was apprehended at a commuter rail station in Oakland in the early hours of Friday and is currently facing charges of murder and carrying a concealed weapon. Authorities utilized camera footage from various sources, including the college campus and public transit, in locating him. Irving’s brother expressed shock over the events, reflecting on their family dynamic and noting that Cedric had become increasingly distant in recent years.
During his career, Beam served as the head coach of the Laney College Eagles, guiding them to success and shaping the lives of countless young athletes, including those like NFL players Nahshon and Rejzohn Wright, who later expressed their sorrow online. Mayor Barbara Lee described Beam as a “giant” who devoted his life to mentoring the youth of Oakland and making a significant impact on the community.
Beam’s contributions spanned decades, having begun his tenure at Laney College in 2004. He won multiple league titles during his coaching career and was valuable in helping his players transition to professional football, with at least 20 athletes reaching the NFL. As the community mourns his loss, both the recent shooting of Beam and a separate incident at Skyline High School underscore the ongoing challenges of gun violence within the city, as noted by officials, prompting calls for greater action. Despite this tragedy, Beam’s legacy of compassion and mentorship will resonate within the Oakland community for years to come.