Man Arrested for Livestreaming Threats at Atlanta Airport

Atlanta, GA, October 20, 2025

News Summary

A 49-year-old man from Cartersville was arrested at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport after livestreaming threats to shoot up the airport. Billy Joe Cagle was captured just minutes after entering the South Terminal, following an alert from his family. Authorities discovered an AR-15 rifle in his truck parked outside. Cagle faces multiple charges including terroristic threats and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, with investigations ongoing into his mental health and motives.

Cartersville – A 49-year-old man was arrested at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport on October 20, 2025, after allegedly livestreaming threats to shoot up the airport. Billy Joe Cagle, a resident of Cartersville, was taken into custody shortly after entering the airport’s South Terminal. Authorities confirmed that Cagle was apprehended at 9:54 a.m., just minutes after receiving an alert from his family about his disturbing livestream.

According to reports, Cagle made direct threats during his livestream about his plans to attack the airport. Following an alert to the Cartersville police, they promptly informed the Atlanta Police Department at approximately 9:40 a.m. Cagle arrived at the airport shortly before 9:30 a.m., entering the terminal at precisely 9:29 a.m.

Upon searching Cagle’s parked pickup truck, police discovered an AR-15 assault rifle along with 27 rounds of ammunition. The police chief indicated that Cagle entered the airport unarmed, suggesting he intended to scout the location before retrieving his weapon from his vehicle.

In a statement regarding the incident, Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens highlighted the potential for tragedy, noting that “27 or more lives could have been lost today.” Cagle has been charged with multiple offenses, which include terroristic threats, criminal attempt to commit aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

Cagle’s background raises concerns, as it has been reported that he has a history of mental health issues along with a criminal past involving drug-related charges. The Secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem, expressed appreciation for the swift apprehension of Cagle, which prevented any risk of harm to the public.

Georgia State Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene also recognized the urgent response by law enforcement and the vital role played by Cagle’s family in alerting authorities about his plans. The swift action taken by police within minutes following the alert is being acknowledged as a successful example of the “see something, say something” protocol.

The motive behind Cagle’s threats is currently under investigation, including assessments of his mental health challenges. Authorities have not disclosed specific details regarding Cagle’s cooperation with investigators as the case unfolds.

This incident comes amid a broader conversation about mental health and gun violence in the United States, drawing parallels with recent shootings that highlight ongoing concerns over firearms access for individuals with mental health challenges.

Key Details of the Incident:

• Cagle livestreamed threats and was reported by his family.
• Police were notified at 9:40 a.m.; he entered the airport at 9:29 a.m.
• An AR-15 with 27 rounds was found in his truck parked outside the airport.
• Cagle was unarmed upon entering the airport and was apprehended at 9:54 a.m.
• Charges include terroristic threats and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

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Additional Resources

• CBS News
• NBC News
• The New York Times
• Fox News
• WSB-TV
• Wikipedia: Gun Violence in the United States
• Google Search: Atlanta Airport Shooting Threats
• Google Scholar: Atlanta Airport Safety
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Gun Control
• Google News: Atlanta Airport Incident

Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER

The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.