Legendary Oakland football coach, Netflix star shot after gunman opens fire at California college

The Oakland Police Department (OPD) is investigating after a legendary California football coach was wounded in a shooting at Laney College in Oakland.

The shooting happened just before noon Thursday on the 900 block of Fallon Street, near the Laney College Fieldhouse, according to OPD.

When officers arrived, they found John Beam, 58, the longtime Laney College football coach and athletic director, had been shot at least once, according to OPD and the Oakland Fire Department.

Beam was taken to Highland Hospital, where he is in critical condition, according to a statement from the Peralta Community College District.

SHOOTING AT OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY RESIDENCE HALL LEAVES MULTIPLE VICTIMS

"The Peralta community is devastated by his shooting and deeply concerned for his well-being. We are stunned and heartbroken that such violence has touched our campus and one of the most respected and beloved members of our Laney, Peralta, and Oakland community," the district said. "John Beam is a renowned coach, teacher, mentor, and leader whose impact extends far beyond athletics. Our thoughts are with him and his family."

A male suspect dressed in dark clothing fled the scene, Oakland Police Assistant Chief James Beere said during a news conference. No arrests have been confirmed as of Thursday night.

Beere noted police are interviewing people at the scene.

Beam started at Laney College as the running backs coach in 2004 and was later promoted to offensive coordinator, where he led the Eagles to three conference championship wins and five consecutive bowl game appearances.

As head football coach, Beam won two league titles, had a .600 winning percentage and made four bowl game appearances.

He produced more than 20 NFL players, including seven players that participated in the Super Bowl, and his program has a 90% graduation and transfer rate.

Beam was also featured in Netflix's 2020 documentary, "Last Chance U," which highlighted junior college football players with difficult pasts, according to the streaming service.

Laney College could not immediately be reached by Fox News Digital for comment.