Last Chance U Coach John Beam Fatally Shot on College Campus

Legendary Coach Killed in Targeted Attack

John Beam, the beloved American football coach who gained national fame through Netflix's documentary series Last Chance U, was fatally shot on the campus of Laney College in Oakland, California. The 66-year-old coach was shot on Thursday, November 13, 2025, and succumbed to his injuries on Friday, November 14, after being hospitalized in critical condition.

A Targeted Incident

Oakland police confirmed that the shooting was a 'very targeted incident' involving a 27-year-old suspect who knew Beam. Police arrested Cedric Irving Jr., who now faces potential murder charges. 'This was not a random act of violence,' stated Assistant Chief James Beere. 'The suspect and victim were acquainted, though not closely connected.'

Community in Mourning

The shooting has sent shockwaves through the Oakland community where Beam was revered as a mentor and father figure to thousands of young athletes. Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee described Beam as 'a giant in Oakland - a mentor, an educator, and a lifeline for thousands of young people.' She added, 'In more than forty years, he created leaders, on and off the field, and our community is shocked along with his family.'

Last Chance U Legacy

Beam and his Laney College football team were featured in the fifth and final season of Last Chance U, which premiered on Netflix in 2020. The documentary series follows student-athletes who have faced challenges and are trying to rebuild their lives through sports. Beam was known for his dedication to players who had been rejected by other programs, building strong bonds with his team members.

Remarkable Coaching Career

Beam's coaching career spanned more than four decades, beginning in 1979 at Serra High School in San Diego. He gained prominence at Oakland Skyline High School from 1982-1997, compiling a 160-33-3 record and winning 15 league championships. At Laney College, he served as running backs coach (2004), offensive coordinator (2005), head football coach (2012), and athletic director.

His coaching achievements were extraordinary - he produced over 20 NFL players, including seven who played in the Super Bowl, and helped more than 200 student-athletes reach Division I college programs. Most impressively, he maintained a 90% graduation and transfer rate, emphasizing that 'the student part of athletics was most important.'

Player Tributes Pour In

Current NFL players who were coached by Beam expressed their grief on social media. Rejzohn Wright of the New Orleans Saints wrote on Instagram, 'You mean everything to me.' Nahshon Wright of the Chicago Bears posted a video from their time together on Last Chance U, highlighting the profound impact Beam had on his players' lives.

The shooting occurred at the Laney Field House on campus, and the suspect was later apprehended at a nearby BART station. The incident marks another tragic episode of campus violence, coming just one day after a separate shooting at Skyline High School where a student was injured.

Beam is survived by his wife Cindi, two daughters, two granddaughters, and a legacy that will continue to influence generations of athletes in Oakland and beyond.