Suspect in murder of legendary Oakland coach John Beam makes 1st court appearance

Oakland, CALocal News

Cedric Irving Jr. , 27, appeared in court for the first time on charges of felony murder and gun offenses after allegedly shooting Oakland football coach John Beam. Beam, a respected figure at Laney College and star of "Last Chance U," was shot last Thursday. Irving admitted to the shooting and was found with a handgun at the time of his arrest. Family members of Coach Beam, along with former NFL player Marshawn Lynch, were present in court but did not speak to the media.

The Oakland District Attorney plans to reinstate mandatory minimum sentences for gun-related crimes due to increasing gun violence in the community. The DA expressed her distress over the situation, emphasizing the need for improved security on school campuses. Although Irving frequented Laney College, he was not a student athlete and had no prior criminal history. The case highlights ongoing concerns about safety and gun violence in Oakland, particularly following two school shootings last week.

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