A 38 year old man from Battersea has been convicted of manslaughter after a fatal attack on a pensioner who had told a child to take care while riding an electric bike on the pavement.
Andre Wright-Walters, of Este Road, Battersea, was found guilty at Kingston upon Thames Crown Court on Thursday 29 October following a trial.
The court heard that Wright-Walters attacked 67 year old Nigerian man James Gbadamosi after the pensioner told a child to be careful as he rode an electric bike quickly on the pavement near pedestrians.
Police were called to reports of an assault in Balham High Road at around 15:40 on Sunday 24 August 2025. Officers attended with the London Ambulance Service and found James with serious injuries after he had been punched and hit his head on the ground. He was taken to hospital, where he died on Friday 5 September 2025.
Detectives from the Metropolitan Police’s Specialist Crime Command identified Wright-Walters by reviewing hours of CCTV, interviewing witnesses and analysing phone data. He was arrested at his home on Wednesday 27 August on suspicion of grievous bodily harm with intent and possession of a Class A drug. He later pleaded guilty to the drug offence.
After James’s death, Wright-Walters was arrested on Saturday 6 September on suspicion of murder and charged the following day. Ahead of the trial the charge was amended to manslaughter, and a jury found him guilty.
Detective Inspector Sarah Philippe, who led the 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 the 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 partner, 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.
By John James
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