John Beam, a revered football coach known from Netflix's "Last Chance U," was tragically shot and killed on November 13, 2025, at Laney College in Oakland, California, where he dedicated over four decades to mentoring young athletes.
Charged with his murder is 27-year-old Cedric Irving Jr., who allegedly believed Beam was using witchcraft against him, a disturbing claim that has raised questions about the suspect's mental health and the motives behind the attack.
In the days leading up to his death, Beam expressed concerns about campus security, highlighting the dangers faced by those working in collegiate sports and the pressing need for better safety measures.
The news of Beam's death sent shockwaves through the sports community, leading to heartfelt tributes from former players, including NFL star Nahshon Wright, who honored Beam's legacy during a game days after the shooting.
A memorial has emerged near the Laney College athletic office, reflecting the profound impact Beam had on his community and the deep sense of loss felt by those he inspired and guided throughout his career.
This tragedy has ignited conversations around gun violence in educational institutions and the urgency for mental health support to prevent similar incidents in the future, calling for a reevaluation of safety practices in schools.
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