John Beam, an athletic director of Laney College, was shot on Thursday, November 13, 2025, on campus in Oakland.
He was married to Cindi Rivera for over 44 years and has two beautiful daughters and a son.
The Laney College community is in shock after legendary football coach and current Athletic Director John Beam was shot on campus Thursday.
The shooting occurred around noon at the fieldhouse on campus, near East 8th Street and Fifth Avenue.
The campus was placed on a temporary lockdown as police responded to the incident. Later, authorities determined there was no active shooter threat, and the suspect fled the scene.
According to sources, Beam was shot in the head, and his current condition is unknown. He was transported to a local hospital for treatment.
Oakland Police Chief James Beere confirmed the department is investigating the shooting. Police are searching for a male suspect described as wearing dark clothing and a black hoodie.
This is an active investigation. Anyone with information is asked to call the Oakland Police Department at (510) 238-3821.
Please pray for my friend and Legendary Coach John Beam 🙏
David J. Long
He was shot at Laney College today. What a senseless act of violence 💔
Praying for you, Coach.
John Beam’s Wife is the Grounding Force
Cindi Rivera has been the steadfast partner of football coach John Beam for over 44 years.
Their long-lasting marriage, which blessed them with two daughters, a son, and the joy of grandparenthood, began with a move for love.
40 years ago today we said yes and began our big happy family. We now have two daughters, a son, & a granddaughter. Cindi you have given me 40 years of love, support, & adventure. I can’t wait for the next 40. Happy anniversary to my very best friend. I love you. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/WYlYRQimYZ
— Coach John Beam (@beam_coach) September 5, 2021
Early in their relationship, Rivera’s move to the Bay Area prompted Beam to follow her, and his decision ultimately launched his legendary coaching career.
He completed his degree at Cal State Hayward, and his journey to winning multiple championships at Skyline High School began.
Happy Birthday, Cindi. My amazing wife, incredible mother, and fantastic grandmother
John Beam
May the sun always shine on you.
2 Claps Ready Ready
While John built his career on the football field, Cindi built hers in the field of therapy.
Her professional skills have been a cornerstone of their relationship, providing Beam with crucial support for his mental health.
She is known to “ground him,” creating an excellent balance and ensuring he remains mindful and engaged.
Moreover, Cindi gained public recognition for this very talent on the Netflix series Last Chance U, where she was seen helping anxious football players manage their stress through simple breathing exercises.
The Beam Family is Always Together, Supporting Each Other
Staying connected is a top priority for the Beam family, regardless of their location worldwide.
Their bond is built on daily routines and shared adventures, always supporting each other through life’s big moments.
John Beam and his wife, Cindi Rivera-Beam, strengthen their connection at home with a simple morning ritual of going for walks together.
This daily time allows them to talk and be a sounding board for one another before the day begins.
Moreover, their focus on family extends far beyond their neighborhood. John, whose mother was from Korea, took his small family to Seoul for a two-week stay.
I will always need my daughters, no matter what age I am. They have made me laugh and made me cry, kept me on my toes, and driven me crazy at times. But my daughters are a promise that I will have a friend forever. Love Monica and Sonjha
John Beam
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Travel is a cherished family activity.
Although the pandemic paused a planned trip to Rome and London in 2020, they have created other wonderful memories.
They visited Japan when their daughter studied there, combining that trip with a visit to Korea. Even busy work schedules become opportunities for connection.
During football season, Cindi traveled to London with their oldest daughter for work, making the trip an exceptional opportunity for them to bond.
The Beam family’s support for one another shines brightest during times of celebration.
When John was inducted into the Bay Area Multi-Ethnic Hall of Fame, his wife, Cindi, and their two daughters, Sonjha and Monica, were right by his side at the banquet.
The Beam family shows that they are always together.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- John Beam was the head coach when Laney College was featured on the Netflix series ‘Last Chance U’ in 2020.
- He retired as the head football coach of Laney College after 45 years of service.
