John Beam, legendary Oakland football coach, in critical condition after being shot at Laney College

John Beam, Laney College's Athletic Director, was shot in the head on Thursday and is listed in critical condition. The shooting occurred around noon at the fieldhouse, which prompted a lockdown that was lifted at 1:15 p. m. Acting Oakland Police Chief James Beere confirmed that initial fears of an active shooter were unfounded. Beam, known for his mentorship of young athletes, has been a pivotal figure in their lives, helping many reach the NFL.

Friends and colleagues, including LaRonne Armstrong, emphasized the need for continued efforts to combat gun violence in Oakland. The college's football program gained national attention when it was featured in the Netflix series 'Last Chance U' in 2020. Police are actively searching for the shooter, described as a male in dark clothing and a black hoodie. This incident highlights ongoing concerns about safety and violence in the community.