Nigerian-born James Gbadamosi’s killer has been convicted. Mr Gbadamosi, a pensioner, was murdered by a man who launched a violent attack on him because Mr Gbadamosi told off a child.
The convicted murderer, Andre Wright-Walters, 38, of Este Road, Battersea, was convicted of manslaughter on Thursday, following a trial at Kingston-upon-Thames Crown Court.
Mr Wright-Walters will be sentenced on Tuesday. Carla Brenton, 31, of Pier Road, Bexley, also charged in connection with the incident, was found not guilty of manslaughter.
The court heard that Mr Wright-Walters attacked Mr Gbadamosi, 67, 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 quickly to identify Wright-Walters and gather evidence by reviewing hours of CCTV, interviewing witnesses and analysing phone data.
Police were called to reports of a man being assaulted on Balham High Road at around 3:40 p.m. on August 24, 2025.
Officers attended the scene with the London Ambulance Service and found Mr Gbadamosi with life-threatening injuries after Mr Wright-Walters punched and hit him on the head while he was on the ground. Mr Gbadamosi was taken to hospital where he died on September 5, 2025.
After extensive enquiries, officers analysed CCTV, took witness statements and analysed phone data to identify and piece together Mr Wright-Walters’ movements leading up to the attack on Mr Gbadamosi.
Mr Wright-Walters was arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm with intent and possession of a Class A drug at his home on August 27 last year. He later pleaded guilty to the drug offence.
Following Mr Gbadamosi’s death in the hospital, Mr Wright-Walters was arrested on September 6 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 Mr Wright-Walters guilty.
Detective 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.”
In a tribute, Mr Gbadamosi’s 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.”
