Archive · 15 Nov 2025
Legendary Laney College Coach John Beam Dies After Campus Shooting
A well-loved football coach named John Beam, who worked at Laney College and was famous from a TV show called 'Last Chance U,' has sadly passed away.
He was shot on the college grounds on Thursday.
Coach Beam was 66 years old and was known for helping many young athletes.
He was seen as a father figure by his players.
He is survived by his wife, Cindi, two daughters, and two granddaughters.
The school community is remembering him as a great mentor.
Police have confirmed his death but have not yet shared why he was shot.
Laney College athletic director and coach John Beam has died after being shot on campus.
Beam, who was 66, was a prominent figure in Bay Area athletics and featured on Netflix's 'Last Chance U'.
He was remembered as a mentor who significantly impacted his student-athletes' lives.
Beam is survived by his wife, Cindi, two daughters, and two granddaughters.
The motive for the shooting has not yet been released by authorities.
- Who
- John Beam, Laney College's athletic director and legendary coach, has died.
- What
- John Beam was shot on campus and later died from his injuries.
- When
- The shooting occurred on Thursday afternoon, and his death was confirmed on Friday.
- Where
- The incident took place on the Laney College campus in Oakland, CA.
- Why
- The reason for the shooting has not been publicly disclosed.
- Victim
- John Beam, Laney College Athletic Director and Coach
- Age
- 66
- Incident Date
- Thursday
- Incident Location
- Laney College campus, Oakland, CA
- Outcome
- Deceased
- National Recognition
- Featured in Netflix series 'Last Chance U'
- Survivors
- Wife (Cindi), two daughters, two granddaughters
Sources
John Beam Update: Suspected Shooter Arrested; Laney Coach & Netflix Star In Critical Condition
Suspect Arrested In Shooting Of ‘Last Chance U’ Coach John Beam
Cedric Irving Jr. Named As Suspect In John Beam Shooting — What We Know
