Oakland – The Oakland and football communities are in mourning following the death of John Beam, 66, a longtime coach, mentor, and star of Netflix’s Last Chance U. Beam was shot on the Laney College campus on Thursday, and despite being rushed to a nearby hospital, Oakland Police confirmed he died from his injuries Friday morning. Authorities described the incident as a “very targeted situation,” with a suspect arrested later that morning outside the city.
Beam’s career at Laney College spanned nearly two decades. Joining as an assistant coach in 2004, he became head coach in 2012 and eventually served as athletic director until his passing. Over his tenure, Beam guided 20 athletes who went on to play in the NFL, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of young athletes navigating both sport and life challenges.
A public statement from Beam’s family captured the depth of the loss: “We are devastated that John Beam, our loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, coach, mentor, and friend, has passed. Our hearts are full from the outpouring of love and support for all those who cared about him.”
Peralta Community College District Chancellor Tammeil Gilkerson shared his own reflection with TMZ: “There are no real words to express my profound sorrow, but it is only softened by the tremendous gratitude I feel for the opportunity I had to work alongside him. John made me laugh, infuriated me on some days, elevated my thinking, and constantly challenged me to be better for Peralta and for Oakland.”
Beam’s rise to broader recognition came when he appeared on season five of Last Chance U, a Netflix series chronicling the Laney Eagles’ football season. While the show highlighted his coaching acumen and tough-love approach, those who knew him personally remember a mentor deeply invested in the lives of his players, often guiding them through difficult personal and academic challenges.
Community members, former players, and fans have flooded social media with tributes, emphasizing Beam’s dedication to youth and his role as a pillar in Oakland athletics. “He wasn’t just a coach; he was a father figure to so many of us,” said a former player, highlighting the enduring impact of Beam’s mentorship beyond the field.
Beam’s death leaves a void in Oakland’s sports and education communities, serving as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the lasting influence one committed individual can have over decades. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the targeted attack
