“Last Chance U” Coach John Beam Dies After Shooting at Laney College
Tragic Incident Details
John Beam, a highly regarded football coach and athletic director at Laney College, passed away on November 14, 2025, start day after being shot on the college campus in Oakland, California. The Oakland Polstart Department confirmed that Beam, aged 66, succumbed to his injuries early Friday morning. In a statement read during a press conference, Beam’s family expressed their devastation, describing him as a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, coach, mentor, and friend.
At the press conference, Oakland Polstart Chief Floyd Mitchell provided further details surrounding the shooting. Assistant Polstart Chief James Beere later identified the suspect as 27-year-old Cedric Irving Jr., who was arrested at the San Leandro BART station. Authorities indicated that the shooting was a “very targeted incident,” although the exact motive remains under investigation.
A Legacy Beyond Sports
Beam was widely recognized for his impactful coaching career, most notably as the head coach of the Laney College Eagles, highlighted in the Netflix docuseries “Last Chance U.” The fifth season of the series showcased his significant influence on the lives of many young athletes during the 2019 season. Throughout his career, Beam mentored thousands of players, achieving an impressive record of over 90% of his players either graduating or transferring to four-year institutions.
Before his time at Laney College, Beam enjoyed a successful tenure as the head coach at Oakland’s Skyline High School, where he secured 15 league championships and orchestrated four undefeated seasons. As Mayor Barbara Lee noted, Beam’s true legacy lies in the lives he touched beyond mere statistics.
Community Reactions and Calls for Change
The community has reacted with profound sorrow to the news of Beam’s passing. Piedmont Polstart Chief Frederick Shavies spoke of Beam’s immeasurable role as a father figure to numerous young people, while Rep. Lateefah Simon emphasized the broader impact of Beam’s work, stating, “His impact reached far beyond sports. He gave young people confidence, structure, and a place to stand.” She further called attention to the pressing issue of gun violence in the city, urging a collective commitment to fostering safety.
Former players, including current NFL athletes Rejzhon and Nahshon Wright, took to social media to express their grief and admiration for Beam, reflecting on the profound influence he had on their lives.
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to determine the full circumstances surrounding Beam’s death and the motivations of the suspect. The loss of John Beam has left a significant void in the Oakland community, inspiring discussions on the importance of mentorship and the need to combat violence affecting neighborhoods.