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Suspect in John Beam Killing Held Without Bail as Case Moves Toward December Arraignment

Prosecutors point to surveillance footage, a recovered gun, an alleged admission as key evidence.

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Cedric Irving Jr., charged with murder in the shooting of Laney College coach John Beam, appears at his arraignment on Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025, in Oakland, Calif.
Cedric Irving Jr., charged with murder in the shooting of Laney College coach and athletic director John Beam, makes a court appearance Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025, in Oakland. 
Laney College’s athletics facilities in Oakland. A man shot and killed Laney’s athletic director, John Beam, who taught the man suspected of shooting him in 2022. 

Overview

  • Cedric Irving Jr., 27, has been charged with murder and firearm enhancements that carry a potential sentence of 50 years to life.
  • A judge ordered Irving held without bail at his initial court appearance; he did not enter a plea and is due back in court on Dec. 16.
  • A probable-cause filing says Irving admitted to the shooting, was arrested at the San Leandro BART station, and had a handgun prosecutors link to the crime.
  • Oakland police describe the attack as very targeted and say no motive has been disclosed, while court reporting cites alleged statements about witchcraft.
  • District Attorney Ursula Jones Dickson announced the reinstatement of mandatory minimum sentences in gun cases following the recent campus shootings, including Beam’s killing.