What started as a simple reminder from an elderly man about road safety has ended in tragedy.
A 67-year-old pensioner, James Gbadamosi, lost his life after stepping in to stop a child from cycling on the pavement in Balham, south-west London.
The Confrontation Outside Costa Coffee
Mr. Gbadamosi was with his partner near a Costa Coffee on Balham High Road on August 24 when he noticed a young boy riding a Lime bike on the pavement.
Concerned for safety, he told the child that bikes should be ridden on the road, not on pedestrian paths.
But what could have been a passing comment quickly escalated.
A woman who was with the child became defensive, reportedly telling Mr. Gbadamosi, “you think you’re a big man shouting at a child.”
She then walked away and made a phone call.
The Arrival of Wright-Walters
That phone call brought 37-year-old Andre Wright-Walters to the scene.
Prosecutors told the Old Bailey that Wright-Walters confronted Mr. Gbadamosi, referring back to the earlier exchange with the woman and child.
The situation turned violent when Wright-Walters punched and slapped the pensioner before delivering two heavy blows to his face.
The force of the attack knocked Mr. Gbadamosi to the ground, where he struck his head on the pavement.
The Aftermath and Tragic Outcome
Emergency services rushed to Balham High Road, and Mr. Gbadamosi was taken to hospital with severe injuries.
Despite the efforts of medical staff, he died nearly two weeks later, on September 5.
Wright-Walters and the woman left the scene after the assault, but both were arrested on August 27.
During a search of their home, police also discovered cocaine.
The Court Proceedings Begin
Wright-Walters, of Avery Hill in Greenwich, first faced charges of grievous bodily harm with intent and possession of a Class A drug.
He initially appeared at Wimbledon Magistrates’ Court and was granted bail.
However, following Mr. Gbadamosi’s death, the charge was upgraded to murder.
Wright-Walters, appearing at the Old Bailey via video link from HMP Wandsworth, confirmed his identity but gave no plea.
Involvement of the Woman
The woman linked to the incident, aged 30, was also arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to cause grievous bodily harm.
After Mr. Gbadamosi’s death, she was re-arrested for conspiracy to commit murder.
She has since been bailed while further enquiries continue.
What Happens Next
Judge Sarah Munro, KC, has remanded Wright-Walters in custody ahead of a plea and trial preparation hearing scheduled for November 26.
A full trial has been set for May 26 next year and is expected to last three weeks.
Meanwhile, Mr. Gbadamosi’s family is being supported by specialist officers as they come to terms with their devastating loss.