Atlanta, October 20, 2025
News Summary
Billy Joe Cagle, a 49-year-old from Cartersville, Georgia, was apprehended at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport after live-streaming his intention to carry out a mass shooting. His family alerted police, prompting a swift response that led to the discovery of firearms in his vehicle. Authorities praised the family’s actions for averting a potential tragedy, while discussions about mental health and gun violence surfaced again.
Atlanta
A man named Billy Joe Cagle, 49, from Cartersville, Georgia, was arrested for allegedly planning to shoot up Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Cagle livestreamed his intentions on social media shortly before arriving at the airport on Monday morning, stating he would “shoot it up.” His family became concerned and notified the Cartersville Police about his threats, prompting an immediate response from law enforcement.
Cagle, a previously convicted felon, has a history of run-ins with police and is reported to have “mental challenges.” Police were alerted of the threat at 9:40 a.m.; Cagle had already arrived at the airport by that time, entering the terminal at 9:31 a.m. Authorities found Cagle’s Chevrolet flatbed pickup truck parked outside the South Terminal, where a Springfield AR-15 assault rifle and 27 rounds of ammunition were discovered in the back seat.
Upon arriving at the airport, Cagle was seen entering the crowded South Terminal, reportedly scoping out the area and appearing to assess the TSA checkpoint. He was taken into custody at 9:54 a.m., just 15 minutes after police received the alert from Cartersville. During his arrest inside the terminal, he displayed aggressive behavior, yelling as officers subdued him. Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum stated that Cagle was likely planning to return to his vehicle to retrieve his firearm and commit an act of mass violence.
The incident was described as a “tragedy averted” by law enforcement and public officials, who praised the family’s decision to report the threat. Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens emphasized that the rapid response prevented a potential mass shooting, highlighting the dangers of combining firearms with mental health issues.
Background
Gun violence incidents like the one averted at Hartsfield-Jackson have raised awareness about the importance of recognizing warning signs and intervening before violence occurs. The quick actions of Cagle’s family played a critical role in alerting the police, demonstrating the impact that awareness and communication can have in preventing large-scale tragedies. Law enforcement officials have reiterated the significance of being vigilant regarding threats and expressing concerns to authorities when suspicious behavior is detected.
FAQs
Who was arrested for plotting an attack at the Atlanta Airport?
A man named Billy Joe Cagle, 49, from Cartersville, Georgia, was arrested for allegedly planning to shoot up Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
What actions led to the arrest of Billy Joe Cagle?
Cagle livestreamed his intentions on social media shortly before arriving at the airport, stating he would “shoot it up.” His family notified the Cartersville Police about his threats.
What did law enforcement find in Cagle’s vehicle?
Authorities found a Springfield AR-15 assault rifle and 27 rounds of ammunition in the back seat of Cagle’s Chevrolet flatbed pickup truck.
What was Cagle’s behavior during his arrest?
During his arrest inside the terminal, Cagle displayed aggressive behavior, screaming as officers subdued him.
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Additional Resources
- CBS News
- Fox News
- ABC News
- NBC News
- The New York Times
- Wikipedia: Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport
- Google Search: Atlanta Airport shooting threat
- Google Scholar: mass shooting prevention
- Encyclopedia Britannica: mass shooting
- Google News: Atlanta Airport shooting threat
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.
