A man has been charged with murder in the shooting death of John Beam, a former football coach.
Cedric Irving Jr., 27, is accused of killing Beam, who was 66 years old. Beam was a well-known figure at Laney College in California, where he worked as an athletic director.
If Irving is found guilty, he could face a prison sentence of 50 years to life.
Beam was shot in the head on November 13 and died the next day. He was known for helping young athletes, and his work was featured on the Netflix series “Last Chance U.”
The district attorney, Ursula Jones Dickson, expressed her condolences to Beam’s family and emphasized his positive impact on the Oakland community. She also mentioned that Alameda County would be implementing mandatory minimum sentences for individuals who illegally possess guns
Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee described Beam as a “giant” and a mentor to many young people. He had a long career of shaping leaders both on and off the football field.
Police say that Irving confessed to killing Beam during an interrogation after he was taken into custody.
