Atlanta, Georgia, October 22, 2025

News Summary

Billy Joe Cagle, 49, has been arrested while armed at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport after making violent threats during a FaceTime call. Cagle’s actions raised alarm among witnesses and led to a swift response from authorities, who arrested him without incident. He faces serious federal charges including attempted violence at an airport and being a felon in possession of a firearm. Cagle’s family cited mental health struggles as a possible factor in his threatening behavior, which was out of character for him.

Atlanta, Georgia

Billy Joe Cagle, a 49-year-old man from Cartersville, Georgia, is facing serious federal charges following his alarming threats to shoot at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Authorities apprehended Cagle on a Monday morning after he arrived at the airport armed with an AR-15-style rifle and 27 rounds of ammunition, prompting fear of potential violence in a busy public area.

At approximately 9:54 AM, Cagle was arrested in the south terminal after making violent threats during a FaceTime call, which raised the alarm to police. A witness, along with Cagle’s wife, contacted the Cartersville Police Department while he was driving along Interstate 75, reporting his threats to “shoot some cars” and expressing his intention to “go rat-a-tatt-tatt” while showing airport signage during the call.

Atlanta police quickly located Cagle near the ticketing area between doors S1 and S2 and arrested him without any incidents. His pickup truck was found parked illegally outside the terminal, blocking a crosswalk. Inside the vehicle, law enforcement discovered the AR-15-style rifle, along with a magazine and 27 rounds of ammunition.

Cagle’s criminal history includes a felony conviction for marijuana possession dating back to 2000, which legally prohibits him from owning firearms. He now faces three federal charges: attempted act of violence at an international airport, interstate transmission of threats, and being a felon in possession of a firearm. An FBI agent has noted that Cagle’s actions clearly indicated an intent to commit violence at the airport.

Following his arrest, Cagle made his first court appearance in federal court on Wednesday and is currently being held without bond. His next court appearance is scheduled for Monday for a detention hearing. A lawyer representing Cagle stated that there may have been a miscommunication regarding the facts of the situation and aims to clarify the matter in the future.

Cagle’s family has expressed concern for his well-being, citing his struggles with mental health issues. They revealed that they had contacted the police in hopes of preventing potential harm, indicating that this behavior was out of character for him. The Atlanta Police Chief pointed out that Cagle intended to return to his truck to access his weapon within the crowded terminal, which could have led to severe consequences.

Mayor Andre Dickens commended Cagle’s family for their prompt actions that likely prevented a mass shooting, emphasizing the importance of community vigilance. Police estimate that over 20 individuals could have been endangered had Cagle not been stopped in time.

Key Details on Charges Against Billy Joe Cagle

• Charges: Attempted act of violence at an international airport, interstate transmission of threats, felon in possession of a firearm.
• Prior Conviction: Felony marijuana possession prohibits firearm ownership.
• Weapons: AR-15-style rifle, magazine, and 27 rounds of ammunition found in his vehicle.
• Location of Arrest: South terminal of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
• Potential Impact: Over 20 people could have been endangered.

Background

The events leading to Cagle’s arrest unfolded rapidly after his alarming phone call. His explicit threat to cause harm in a busy airport drew immediate attention from authorities, highlighting the delicate balance between mental health issues and public safety. The incident underscores the ongoing concerns surrounding airport security and the potential for mass violence in public spaces.

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Additional Resources

• Fox 5 Atlanta
• Wikipedia: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
• ABC News
• Google Search: Atlanta airport shooting
• CBS News
• Google Scholar: Atlanta airport shooting threat
• CNN
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Airport Security
• Atlanta News First
• Google News: Airport Security

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.