Former NFL running back CJ Anderson has issued a heartfelt public plea for his former coach, John Beam, to 'keep fighting' after the beloved Laney College athletic director was shot on campus and rushed to hospital in critical condition.
A Beloved Figure in Critical Condition
The shocking incident occurred on Thursday, with Beam, 66, reportedly shot in the head at the fieldhouse on the Laney College campus at East 8th Street and Fifth Avenue. Authorities initially responded to the scene as if there was an active shooter, placing the college on lockdown, but later determined this was not the case.
A suspect was taken into custody by police early Friday morning around 3am, after fleeing the scene following the shooting which took place at approximately noon on Thursday. The suspect was said to be in possession of a gun.
A Storied Coaching Career
John Beam is a revered figure in college sports, with a coaching career spanning nearly four decades. His work was documented in the 2020 Netflix series 'Last Chance U', showcasing his profound impact on young athletes.
His coaching journey began at Serra High School in San Diego as an offensive line coach, where he helped the team reach the playoffs for the first time in school history. After moving to Oakland, he joined Skyline High School as a defensive coordinator in 1982, becoming head coach five years later. At Skyline, Beam enjoyed his most successful period, winning 15 championships and overseeing four undefeated seasons.
Beam joined Laney College, starting as a running backs coach in 2004 and 2005. He was promoted to offensive coordinator, leading an explosive offense to three conference championships and five straight bowl game appearances. In 2012, he stepped up to become head coach, guiding the team to two league titles and four bowl games before taking on his current role as the school's athletic director.
An NFL Star's Emotional Tribute
One of Beam's most high-profile proteges is CJ Anderson, the star running back who played under him at Laney College in 2009 before carving out a memorable NFL career, which included winning the Super Bowl with the Denver Broncos.
Anderson took to social media platform X to express his support, writing: 'Keep fighting. Keep praying Jesus is King always put your hands on Beam please!!!!'
The sporting community now waits anxiously for news on the condition of a man who has dedicated his life to developing young talent and building successful football programmes.
