A 17-year-old has been charged in the blunt force killing of a Walker County man who initially was believed to be the victim of a deadly hit-and-run.

Walker County sheriff’s deputies were dispatched shortly before 5 a.m. Monday on a 911 call from a passerby who reported a person down in the median of Highway 78 near Scott’s Texaco in the Argo community.

The victim was identified as Jonathan O’Neill Foster, 40. He later died at UAB Hospital.

Sheriff Nick Smith, in a Thursday press conference, said it appeared Foster had been hit by a vehicle and immediately coordinated with Alabama State Troopers who began investigating the case as a potential hit-and-run.

“In the early stages, all evidence pointed to a tragic traffic accident. However, as this investigation unfolded, additional information came to light, raising concerns about the possibility of foul play’’ the sheriff said.

Walker County Investigators worked closely with state troopers following up on leads.

Midday Wednesday, Smith said, the autopsy results confirmed Foster was not fatally struck by a vehicle.

“This critical finding shifted the focus of the investigation and led us pursue other avenues to uncover what truly happened to Mr. Foster,’’ he said.

After hours of investigation and multiple interviews, authorities obtained a murder warrant against the teen boy.

Because of his age, Smith said no additional information about the suspect is being released.

The sheriff said he is not releasing the motive at this time.

“I want to express my deepest, sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of Mr. Foster,’’ the sheriff said. “Losing a loved one in such a violent and sudden way is unimaginable.”

“We stand with them during this difficult time,’’ he said.

“To the residents of Walker County, please know your safety is always our top priority,’’ Smith said. “Cases like this are rare and we remain committed to maintaining peace and security in our community.”

Smith said he understand the public has many questions, but said he can’t disclose more because of the suspect’s juvenile status. The young suspect is being held in the Walker County Jail.

“We ask for patience and understanding as we continue to pursue justice for Mr. Foster,’’ he said.

He said investigators received numerous tips through the sheriff’s office app.

The investigation is ongoing, and anyone with additional information is asked to the sheriff’s office.