John Beam, the former football coach featured in the fifth season of the Netflix documentary series Last Chance U, remains hospitalized after a shooting on the campus of Laney College in Oakland, California.
Videos by Wide Open Country
According to ABC News, the 58-year-old was shot before noon on Nov. 13 at Laney Fieldhouse. The suspect fled the scene afterwards.
"My thoughts are with Coach John Beam and his loved ones. We are praying for him," said Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee in a statement.
"Coach Beam is a giant in Oakland -- a mentor, an educator, and a lifeline for thousands of young people. For over 40 years, he has shaped leaders on and off the field, and our community is shaken alongside his family."
She added, "We are standing together, praying for Coach Beam and his loved ones.
What Do We Know About the Suspect?
Reports indicate that an arrest related to Bean's shooting took place on Nov. 14, the day after the incident. There are no other details released at this time.
The Laney College campus went into lockdown until police confirmed there was no active threat and remained closed for the rest of the day.
This shooting is the second at a school in the Oakland area this week. On Nov. 12, the day before the Laney College incident, a student was shot at Skyline High School. Police said two juveniles were arrested and two firearms were recovered.
Who Is John Beam, and Why Was He on "Last Chance U"?
The series Last Chance U focuses on junior college athletic programs. Many of the students have suffered hardships and other setbacks. By playing for a community college, they are given a chance to redeem themselves and work to get their lives back on track.
The show's fifth season, which aired in 2020, took place at Laney College. Beam was the head football coach at the time, where he was known for his disciplined, structured, and no-nonsense style. On the show, he develops players while helping them overcome financial pressures, unstable home lives, and academic challenges.
At the time of the shooting, Beam was Laney College's athletic director.
