UPDATE: In a poignant moment during the Chicago Bears’ recent game, cornerback Nahshon Wright honored his late coach, John Beam, who was tragically shot and killed on campus just days earlier. This heartfelt tribute came after Wright made a crucial interception against the Minnesota Vikings, preserving a 10-3 lead in the second quarter.
As the clock wound down, instead of celebrating, Wright took a knee in the end zone, reflecting on the profound impact Beam had on his life. “He was watching over me,” Wright said post-game, recalling a phone call with Beam the night before his passing. “He told me that every game he watched, I just seemed to get a pick. So I just know he was behind me today.”
Authorities confirm that John Beam, a revered figure in Oakland football, was shot on campus at Laney College on October 19, 2023. The Oakland Police Department responded to gunfire reports just before noon, finding Beam critically injured. He succumbed to his injuries the next day.
In a swift response, police arrested Cedric Irving Jr., 27, early Friday morning at the San Leandro BART station, linking him to the targeted attack on Beam. Acting Oakland Police Chief James Beere stated, “This was a very targeted incident.” Irving, who faces murder charges and ten additional felonies, could be sentenced to 50 years to life if convicted. His arraignment is set for Tuesday.
Beam’s legacy spans over four decades of coaching, with his most recent tenure at Laney, where he served as head coach from 2012 to 2024. He also held the position of athletic director since 2006. His influence reached beyond the football field, making him a father figure to many of his players, including both Wright brothers.
“Beam stepped in, stepped in as a father figure,” said Nahshon Wright, emphasizing the void he filled after the loss of their father in 2017. His brother, Rejzohn Wright, echoed these sentiments, sharing a clip of the interception on social media and declaring, “Long live Coach Beam forever with us!”
In the wake of Beam’s death, tributes have poured in from players and the community. He gained national recognition in the Netflix series “Last Chance U,” which showcased his dedication to young athletes in Oakland. Creator Greg Whiteley highlighted Beam’s passion and integrity, noting his lasting commitment to the community.
As the investigation unfolds and the community mourns, Nahshon Wright’s emotional tribute serves as a reminder of the profound impact that mentors like John Beam can have on young lives. “I gained an angel, for sure,” Wright concluded, encapsulating the deep bond they shared.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as the legal proceedings against Cedric Irving Jr. continue and more tributes emerge in memory of Coach Beam.
