Jonathan O’Neal Foster, 40, was found dead in the median of Highway 78 near the Argo Hill area in the early morning of October 14, 2024. He was taken to a hospital but died of his injuries. The incident was initially investigated as a possible hit-and-run by Alabama State Troopers.

An autopsy on October 16 determined Foster’s injuries were not consistent with being struck by a vehicle, and the case was reclassified as a homicide. The Walker County Sheriff’s Office developed leads through interviews, and a 17-year-old juvenile from the Argo community was arrested and charged with first-degree murder; authorities have not released motive details and are limiting comment because the suspect is a juvenile. The investigation remains ongoing.

If anyone saw activity on Highway 78 near Argo Hill on October 14 or has information about Foster’s death, please contact investigators.