Oakland Laney College Shooting Hospitalizes Athletic Staff Member
A shooting incident at Laney College has left a member of the athletic staff hospitalized. The victim, identified as John Beam, has long been associated with the college’s football program.
Details of the Incident
The shooting occurred on a Thursday, marking the second violent event at an Oakland school within 48 hours. John Beam, the athletic director and former football coach, has been a prominent figure in the college’s sports community.
- Victim: John Beam, athletic director at Laney College
- Nature of Incident: Shooting on Laney College campus
- Previous Incident: A student was shot at Skyline High School in Oakland just a day earlier
Background on John Beam
Beam led the Laney Eagles football team to a state championship in 2018, achieving a top ranking nationally. He gained further recognition through his involvement in Netflix’s docuseries, “Last Chance U,” which highlighted the journeys of junior college football programs.
In his interview with KQED in 2020, Beam emphasized his commitment to mentoring players beyond sports. He regularly invited former players who became successful professionals to inspire current athletes. “I put the jerseys of Laney alumni in the NFL up there to inspire folks,” he stated.
Community Response
The shooting has prompted a strong reaction from local officials. Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee expressed her heartbreak over the violence. She pointed out that ongoing gun violence threatens community safety and futures.
- Mayor’s Quote: “We must continue confronting the ongoing gun violence crisis that is robbing our community of safety.”
The Oakland Police Department is actively investigating this incident. With two school shootings in such a short span, the community’s call to address violence is more urgent than ever.
