Laney College athletic director John Beam, of Last Chance U fame, was shot on Thursday near Laney College football field.
According to reports, he was swiftly transported to a local hospital in Oakland, California, with KTVU reporting that his injuries are critical.
Acting Oakland Police Chief James Beere revealed in a press conference that they had received calls before noon yesterday, Thursday, November 14 about shots being fired at Laney College.
Responding officers found Beam wounded on arrival. Chief Beere impressed that it was not an active-shooter incident, though at the time of the press conference the suspect – a man dressed in all dark clothing, including a black hoodie – was still at large.
Beam’s name was not given by the authorities, but local media outlets later identified him. The 66-year-old featured in the fifth and final season of the Netflix documentary series Last Chance U, which aired in 2020 and followed the Laney Eagles during their 2019 season.
Beam retired as head coach after the 2024 season but continues to serve the college in his role as athletic director.
The Peralta Community College District said in a statement: “We are stunned and heartbroken that such violence has touched our campus and one of the most respected and beloved members of our Laney, Peralta, and Oakland community.
“John Beam is a renowned coach, teacher, mentor, and leader whose impact extends far beyond athletics. Our thoughts are with him and his family.”
Beam’s career coaching football in the area stretches back some 45 years. He first joined Laney College as a coach in 2004, before becoming offensive coordinator. In 2012 he was promoted to head football coach.
Beam has previously said that his coaching style focused on honesty, consistency, and giving athletes the tools to succeed in life – not just in the world of sports.
“It was always about teaching young men and young women, student-athletes, how to fit into society and do certain things like be true to your word,” Beam said to KTVU upon his retirement as head coach last year.
“Sometimes, young people feel like no one believes in them. Someone has to, so it might as well be me.”
Yesterday’s shooting was the second to take place at an Oakland campus this week after a teenager was shot at a high school in the city on Wednesday.
Oakland mayor Barbara Lee said: “The last two days have been incredibly heavy for our city. My thoughts are with Coach John Beam and his loved ones. We are praying for him.”
Our prayers and thoughts are with Coach John Beam.
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