A shooting incident at Laney College in Oakland has resulted in the injury of a senior athletic staff member. The incident occurred just before noon today, prompting an immediate response from local law enforcement and raising concerns about campus safety.
Details of the Shooting Incident
According to the Oakland Police Department, a person was shot on campus while classes were in session. The suspect, described as a man wearing a black hooded sweater, fled the scene on foot and remains at large.
- Time of Incident: Just before noon
- Location: Laney College, Oakland
- Victim: Senior member of the athletic staff, identified as John Beam
- Response: OPD treated the situation as an active shooter scenario
- Assistance: The FBI is prepared to support OPD in the investigation
Immediate Aftermath
The victim was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. Mark Johnson, a spokesperson for the Peralta Community College District, released a statement acknowledging the victim’s status as a senior athletic staff member. He expressed thoughts and support for the victim and their loved ones.
Students from 10 local high schools were present on a field trip at the time of the shooting. Following the incident, OUSD chaperones swiftly moved the students to a secure location, where they sheltered in place for approximately 45 minutes before police issued an all-clear signal.
The Victim
John Beam has an extensive background in coaching football. He previously served as the head coach at Skyline High School, where his teams achieved significant success, including 15 league championships. He became the head football coach at Laney College in 2012, where he led the team to two league titles.
Beam was also featured in Netflix’s documentary series “Last Chance U,” which highlighted the challenges faced by Laney College’s football program.
Community Response
This incident marks the second shooting on an Oakland campus within a week, following a previous shooting at Skyline High School. Mayor Barbara Lee responded to the situation, expressing heartbreak over the repeated incidents of gun violence impacting the community.
She emphasized the need for continued efforts to address gun violence, urging residents to unite to confront this pressing issue. The Oakland Police Department is actively investigating the shooting and searching for the suspect.
This remains a developing story, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
