A shooting incident at Laney College in Oakland, California, has resulted in the tragic death of John Beam, a well-known American football coach featured in the Netflix documentary series “Last Chance U.” The incident occurred on Thursday, with police reporting that Beam, who served as a mentor to countless college athletes, was shot in the head on campus.
Beam, aged 66, was quickly transported to a hospital but succumbed to his injuries the following morning, as confirmed by the Oakland Police Department. The shooting has prompted a significant response from law enforcement and the community, with former players and officials expressing their condolences and admiration for the influential coach.
Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee remembered Beam as “a giant in Oakland” and emphasized his role as a mentor, educator, and vital support for thousands of young people over his 40-year coaching career. “He has shaped leaders on and off the field,” she added.
In connection with the shooting, police apprehended Cedric Irving Jr. following an extensive manhunt. Authorities described the incident as a targeted attack, and reports indicate that Irving has confessed to the crime. He was arrested at a train station near Oakland early on Friday.
“Last Chance U” is a documentary series that aired for five seasons, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of young athletes playing at community colleges across the United States. The show”s final season, released in 2020, was set in Oakland and explored how such programs provide discipline and opportunities for athletes striving to advance to larger universities and potentially the NFL.
College football enjoys immense popularity in the U.S., with many fans closely following these teams, which, despite being classified as amateur, often feature athletes with aspirations of playing professionally. Some college stadiums can accommodate over 100,000 spectators, showcasing the enthusiasm surrounding collegiate-level football.
