Laney College Athletic Director John Beam Shot on Oakland Campus as Suspect Remains at Large

John Beam, the longtime Laney College Athletic Director and well-known figure from Netflix’s “Last Chance U,” was shot Thursday on the Oakland, California campus near the school’s football field. According to ABC7 News, Beam was transported to a hospital, where he was being treated for a gunshot wound. The extent of his injuries has not yet been publicly disclosed.

Following the shooting, Laney College was placed on lockdown before officials lifted the safety order later in the afternoon. The campus was subsequently closed for the remainder of the day as authorities continued their investigation. Police say the suspect fled immediately after the shooting and remains at large. The individual was described only as a male wearing dark clothing and a black hoodie; no additional identifying details have been confirmed.

 

Laney College Athletic Director John Beam Shot on Oakland Campus as Suspect Remains at Large

Beam, a highly respected figure in Bay Area football, appeared in the fifth season of Netflix’s “Last Chance U” in 2020 during his tenure as head coach of the Laney Eagles. Before becoming the school’s athletic director, he spent years building the football program and mentoring generations of local athletes. Known as a tough but dedicated mentor, Beam has long emphasized academics, accountability, and discipline alongside athletic success. He retired from coaching at the end of the last season but continued his work as athletic director.

The Oakland Fire Department has not yet released updated information regarding Beam’s current condition, and investigators have not identified a motive for the shooting.

Laney College Athletic Director John Beam Shot on Oakland Campus as Suspect Remains at Large