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Former 'Last Chance U' coach John Beam shot at Oakland college
John Beam, the former football coach featured in Netflix's Last Chance U, was shot on Thursday inside the athletics building at Laney College in Oakland, California, according to U.S. media reports. The attack, reported just before noon, left Beam hospitalized with unspecified injuries. Authorities confirmed he was the sole victim.
Campus lockdown and ongoing manhunt
Police initiated a lockdown after responding to reports of an active shooter. A subsequent search declared the campus safe, though the gunman-described as wearing dark clothing-remains at large. Investigators have not disclosed a motive or identified the suspect.
College officials initially referred to the victim as a "senior member of the athletic staff" before confirming Beam's identity. The 66-year-old, who retired from coaching last year, currently serves as Laney College's athletic director.
Beam's legacy in Oakland football
Beam spent over 40 years coaching in Oakland, earning accolades including the California Community College Athletic Association's Coach of the Year award. His career included mentoring 20 players who reached the NFL and over 100 who advanced to Division 1 teams. Beyond athletics, he emphasized academic and career readiness, famously inviting alumni-now doctors, authors, and first responders-to speak to current players.
"I put the jerseys [of Laney alumni in the NFL] up there to inspire folks. But then on Thursdays, I bring in other folks that come in that have played for me that are now doctors, or write books, or are police officers, or firemen. And so I want to let everybody know that these are all possibilities."
John Beam, in a 2022 interview with KQED
Connection to 'Last Chance U'
The fifth season of the Netflix documentary series, released in 2020, centered on Beam and the Laney Eagles, exploring the team's challenges amid Oakland's socioeconomic shifts and gentrification. The show highlighted his dual focus on athletic success and player development off the field.
About Laney College
Founded in 1953, Laney College is a public community college located roughly 13 miles (21 km) east of downtown San Francisco. The campus remains open as police continue their investigation.
