Tragic Loss: ‘Last Chance U’ Coach Beam Passes Away After Shooting Incident

John Beam, a beloved college football coach known for his role in the Netflix series “Last Chance U,” has died after being shot on campus in Oakland, California. The Oakland Police Department confirmed the news, stating that a suspect has been arrested.

Oakland Police Chief Floyd Mitchell shared that the shooting appears to have been targeted. Assistant Chief James Beere noted that the suspect and Beam were familiar but not close. Beam was known for his commitment to helping those in his community.

The suspect, a former football player at Skyline High School, had been seen hanging around the campus. Thanks to surveillance technology, police were able to apprehend him swiftly. Although no details on specific charges have been released, authorities continue to investigate.

This incident marks the second shooting at a school in Oakland within recent days, highlighting growing concerns about safety in educational environments. This troubling trend is echoed in a report from the Gun Violence Archive, which noted an increase in school shootings nationwide in recent years.

Beam’s impact as a coach and mentor cannot be overstated. He led the football team at Laney College, where he won league titles and helped many players transition to the NFL. Known for fostering personal connections, Beam was more than just a coach; he was a father figure to countless athletes. Former player Rejzohn Wright expressed his sorrow on social media, calling Beam a significant influence in his life.

Community leaders remember Beam fondly. Piedmont Police Chief Fred Shavies, who knew him as a mentor, praised his unique ability to inspire and uplift young people. Mayor Barbara Lee echoed this sentiment, calling him a “giant” in the community.

The mourning community gathered outside the hospital where Beam fought for his life, showing just how much he meant to those he coached and helped over the years. As violence touches educational spaces, many are left wondering how to create safer environments for students and staff alike.

To learn more about trends in school safety, you can visit the [National Center for Education Statistics](https://nces.ed.gov) for insightful data and analysis.

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