Netflix Star and Football Coach John Beam Dies Day After Shooting on College Campus

Legendary college football coach John Beam, known for his role in the Netflix series “Last Chance U,” tragically passed away after a targeted shooting on a campus in Oakland, California. John Beam, aged 66, was the athletic director at Laney College and a coach at Skyline High School.

The shocking incident occurred inside the Oakland campus field house on Thursday and Beam was critically injured. Tragically, he succumbed to his injuries and passed away at 10 a.m. on Friday. Authorities have arrested a suspect, 27-year-old Cedric Irving, in connection with Beam’s death. Although Irving and Beam knew each other, they did not have a close relationship.

Irving had reportedly visited Laney College for a specific reason and was often seen loitering around the campus. He was not previously known to police before the shooting, and charges are still pending. Technology, including surveillance cameras on and near the college campus, played a vital role in Irving’s capture.

John Beam, who joined Laney College in 2004 and became head coach in 2012, was described by his family as a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, coach, mentor, and friend. Over the years, he shaped young athletes, with 20 of his players going on to the NFL. Beam’s impact extended beyond football, as he was seen as a mentor and lifeline to many young people in the community.

Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee paid tribute to Beam, calling him a giant and praising his dedication to education and youth development. The Netflix docuseries featuring Beam and his Laney College Eagles brought attention to the coach’s work with student-athletes and their journey to improve their lives through sports.

The motive behind Beam’s tragic killing remains unclear, but family members of the suspect, Irving, mentioned that he had distanced himself from them in recent years. The community is still reeling from Beam’s death, along with a shooting incident at Skyline High School the day before that left a student injured but in stable condition.

Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding John Beam’s passing, while friends, former players, and community members mourn the loss of a beloved figure. John Beam’s legacy as a coach, mentor, and leader will not be forgotten in Oakland and beyond.