John Beam, the renowned Laney College football coach and athletic director, has tragically passed away after being shot on the campus Thursday afternoon. Beam, 66, was fatally wounded during an incident inside the athletics field house, an expansive facility at the heart of the college’s sports program. His death has sent shockwaves through Oakland and the broader football community, marking the loss of a beloved mentor and leader.
The shooting occurred just before noon as Beam was inside the 18,000-square-foot field house, which houses locker rooms, classrooms, and workout facilities. Despite swift medical attention, Beam succumbed to his injuries at a local hospital on Friday morning, just hours after being rushed in critical condition.
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Local police quickly launched a manhunt for the suspect, later identifying 27-year-old Cedric Irving Jr. as the individual arrested in connection with the shooting. While authorities confirmed Irving was familiar with Beam, they have stated that he had never been one of Beam’s players, and there was no known relationship between the two. Investigators have yet to release a clear motive for the attack.
The shooting prompted an immediate campus-wide lockdown as officers worked to secure the area and ensure the safety of students and faculty. The Peralta Community College District called the incident a “shocking and tragic moment” for the college, with the victim initially described as a senior member of the athletic department.
The incident in Oakland is the second school shooting in the city within a week. Just a day before Beam’s death, a student was injured in a shooting at Skyline High School, where Beam had coached for many years before transitioning to Laney College.
A Legacy of Mentorship and Compassion
John Beam was far more than just a football coach; he was a life coach, a mentor, and a father figure to countless athletes. His career spanned over four decades, beginning at Skyline High School and culminating at Laney College, where he built a nationally recognized football program. Beam became a household name in 2020 when Last Chance U featured his work at Laney College, showcasing his unique approach to coaching and leadership.
Known for his holistic and compassionate coaching style, Beam focused not only on athletic performance but also on helping young men navigate the complexities of life. He often spoke about the importance of vulnerability and emotional resilience, particularly for young men of color, encouraging them to seek help when needed. “Asking for help is not a weakness, it’s a strength,” Beam shared in an interview with The New York Times in 2020.
Beam’s impact extended beyond the football field, reaching into the hearts of those who knew him. NFL cornerback Rejzohn Wright, one of Beam’s former players at Laney, shared a tribute on social media: “You mean everything to me,” Wright wrote alongside a photo of Beam with his hands on his shoulder pads, a symbol of the deep bond they shared.
Although Beam retired from coaching in 2024, he continued to serve as athletic director at Laney College until his untimely death.
A City in Mourning
The tragic loss of John Beam has deeply affected the Oakland community, where he was considered a pillar of strength and inspiration. City officials, including Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee, expressed their grief, calling the incident “heartbreaking” and acknowledging Beam’s extensive contributions to the city.
Ken Houston, a city councilmember, also weighed in, calling the shooting “devastating,” noting that Beam was more than a coach; he was a beacon of hope and stability in a city plagued by violence. “John Beam was an icon in Oakland,” Houston said. “This loss is felt deeply by everyone.”
A Family’s Heartache
Beam leaves behind his wife, two daughters, and grandchildren—his most cherished legacy. Throughout his career, he often spoke with pride about his family, drawing strength from them during his toughest moments.
As the Laney College community grapples with the tragic loss, the Peralta district has pledged support, offering counseling and resources for students, staff, and athletes. While the campus mourns the loss of a beloved figure, the influence of John Beam’s life and work will continue to resonate, not just in the world of football, but in the lives of everyone he mentored, inspired, and loved.