Suspect accused of killing of legendary Oakland coach John Beam charged with murder
Cedric Irving has been charged with felony murder and gun offenses in the shooting death of Laney College coach John Beam. The Alameda County District Attorney's Office reported that the firearm used in the shooting was registered to Irving, who admitted to the crime during police questioning. DA Ursula Jones Dickson voiced her concern over escalating gun violence in Oakland and announced the reinstatement of mandatory minimum sentences for gun-related offenses, particularly targeting ghost guns. Beam's murder, occurring alongside another shooting at Skyline High School, has intensified discussions about security on school campuses. Former prosecutor Steven Clark emphasized the profound influence Beam had on young athletes and called for a reevaluation of gun policies.
The Oakland NAACP chapter plans to propose alternative safety measures, such as increased funding for surveillance technologies. Dickson noted that while her office typically reacts to incidents, this situation presents an opportunity for proactive measures. The arraignment for Irving is scheduled for Tuesday morning.