Man convicted of manslaughter of pensioner

A man who carried out a fatal attack on a pensioner because he told off a child has been convicted of his death following an investigation by specialist Met detectives.

Andre Wright-Walters, 38 (05.02.88) of Este Road, Battersea, was convicted of manslaughter on Thursday, 29 October following a trial at Kingston-upon-Thames Crown Court.

The court heard Wright-Walters attacked 67-year-old James Gbadamosi after he told a child to be careful as he was riding an electric bike fast on the pavement around pedestrians.

Detectives from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command worked at pace to identify Wright-Walters and gather strong evidence by diligently reviewing hours of CCTV, interviewing witnesses and analysing phone data.

Detective Inspector Sarah Philippe, who led the Met’s investigation, said: “Our thoughts remain with James’ family as they continue to come to terms with this devastating loss.

“While no conviction can ever bring James back to his loved ones or undo the pain and suffering caused by his death, we hope today’s verdict provides them with a measure of closure and a sense that justice has been served.

“Throughout this investigation, our focus has been on securing answers for James’ family, and I would like to pay tribute to them as they continue to come to terms with their loss.”

Police were called to reports of a man being assaulted in Balham High Road at around 15:40hrs on Sunday, 24 August 2025.

Officers attended the scene with the London Ambulance Service and found James with life-threatening injuries after he had been punched and hit his head on the ground. He was taken to hospital where he sadly died on Friday, 5 September 2025.

Following extensive enquiries by officers, who carried out CCTV analysis, took witness statements and analysed phone data, they were able to identify and piece together Wright-Walters' movements leading up to the attack on James.

Wright-Walters was arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm with intent and possession of a Class A drug at his home on Wednesday, 27 August last year. He later pleaded guilty to the drug offence.

Following James’ death in hospital, Wright-Walters was arrested on Saturday, 6 September on suspicion of murder. He was then charged the following day.

Ahead of the trial the charge was amended to manslaughter, and a jury found Wright-Walters guilty.

In a tribute, James’ family said: "The family welcome the verdict and thank the police for their hard work in bringing those responsible to justice.

"James was a huge part of our family and his loss has left a void that can never truly be filled. He was loved by so many, especially his husband, who has lost his beloved partner and the future they had hoped to share together. An affable, funny, intelligent and caring man, James brought people together and had a genuine interest in others. He will be remembered for his warmth, humour, kindness and the countless friendships he made throughout his life.

"His death has changed our lives forever, and we will feel his absence in countless ways for the rest of our lives. We are deeply grateful to everyone who has offered support and sympathy during this difficult time. James was loved beyond measure and will never be forgotten. We will carry him in our hearts always."

Wright-Walters will be sentenced at the same court on Tuesday, 3 November.

Carla Brenton, 31 (06.01.95), of Pier Road, Bexley, and also charged in connection with the incident, was found not guilty of manslaughter.