Man accused of murder in John Beam shooting makes first court appearance
The man accused of shooting and killing longtime Oakland football coach John Beam appeared before a judge Tuesday, marking his first court appearance since being charged with murder. Cedric Irving Jr., 27, appeared behind a glass barricade wearing a vest given to him by the Alameda County Sheriff's Office. A judge ruled he must remain in jail and cannot be released on bail. Irving did not enter a plea during the appearance. Prosecutors charged Irving with murder with gun enhancement charges. If convicted, he could serve 50 years to life in prison. Oakland native and former NFL running back Marshawn Lynch was present in court, along with members of Beam's family. The family, plus the district attorney and public defenders' office declined to comment after the hearing. Oakland police say Beam was shot in the head while in the field house at Laney College, where he worked as athletic director. Sources told the San Francisco Chronicle Irving thought Beam was conducting witchcraft on him. Beam was a respected member of the Oakland community having coached several players who eventually played in the NFL. His popularity grew after his program was featured on "Netflix's Last Chance U." Irving is set to appear in court again on Dec. 16 where he is expected to enter a plea.See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter | Find us on YouTube here and subscribe to our channel
