A man has been convicted of manslaughter after he fatally punched a pensioner in the street in south London.
James Gbadamosi, 67, was out walking in Balham High Street on August 24, 2025, when he reprimanded a youngster for riding an electric bike too fast around pedestrians. In response, Andre Wright-Walters, 38, threw a punch at the pensioner, who hit his head when he fell to the ground.
Police were called to the scene at around 3.40pm and found Mr Gbadamosi with life-threatening injuries. He was rushed to hospital where he died 12 days later.
Family tribute
Mr Gbadamosi's family said in a tribute: "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."
His family said his death had "changed their lives forever".
Arrest and conviction
Wright-Walters, of Este Road, Battersea, was arrested at his home a few days after the incident on suspicion of grievous bodily harm with intent and possession of a Class A drug. He later pleaded guilty to the drug offence.
After Mr Gbadamosi died, Wright-Walters was arrested again on September 6, 2025, on suspicion of murder. The charge was later changed to manslaughter. A jury found him guilty and he was convicted on October 29 at Kingston-upon-Thames Crown Court.
Detective Inspector Sarah Philippe, who led the Met's investigation, said: "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."
Carla Brenton, 31, of Pier Road, Bexley, was also charged in connection with the incident but was found not guilty of manslaughter.
