Atlanta, October 22, 2025
News Summary
Billy Joe Cagle was arrested at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport after threatening to shoot up the airport. His alarming behavior led to a swift police response, culminating in his detention shortly after arrival. With multiple federal and state charges, including attempted violence and possession of a firearm, Cagle’s actions have raised concerns about mental health and firearm access. His family reported his threats, which may have prevented a potential tragedy.
Atlanta
Billy Joe Cagle, 49, was arrested at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport on Monday after making threats to shoot up the airport. Cagle faces multiple federal charges including attempted violence at an international airport, interstate communications containing threats, and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Cagle was taken into custody following a report of the alleged threat made by a family member to the police. During a FaceTime call, Cagle allegedly said he was at the airport and that he was going to “rat-a-tat-tat,” which was interpreted as mimicking gunfire by the individual on the other end. Earlier that day, Cagle had expressed a desire to “shoot some cars” while driving on Interstate 75. This alarming behavior led the individual on the FaceTime call, along with Cagle’s wife, to report concerns about Cagle’s stability and intentions to the Cartersville Police Department.
Police were notified of Cagle’s threats, and they promptly shared his description and vehicle information with the Atlanta Police Department for efforts to intercept him. Cagle was encountered by police in the terminal at 9:54 AM on Monday, shortly after arriving at the airport at 9:29 AM. Authorities reported that Cagle was arrested without a weapon on him at the time of his capture, but an AR-15-style firearm was found in Cagle’s pickup truck, which was parked in a crosswalk in front of the terminal. A total of 27 rounds of ammunition were discovered in his vehicle along with the firearm.
In addition to federal charges, Cagle also faces state charges including terroristic threats and firearms-related offenses. He remains in custody and had his first appearance for state charges in Clayton County, with future federal court dates scheduled. Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum speculated that Cagle was likely scouting the TSA screening area and intended to return to his vehicle to retrieve the weapon.
U.S. Attorney Theodore Hertzberg remarked on the gravity of Cagle’s threats and commended law enforcement and citizens for averting a potential tragedy. The incident has prompted an investigation into how Cagle obtained the firearm, which was manufactured outside of Georgia.
Cagle has a history of mental health challenges and a prior criminal history, including a 2000 felony conviction for possession of marijuana. His family described his mental health struggles, noting that he experiences hallucinations when not on medication, which may have contributed to his actions. Cagle’s wife has filed for divorce, citing irretrievable breakdown of the marriage and allegations of cruel treatment and drug addiction. Cagle’s family expressed gratitude for alerting authorities, believing their swift action may have prevented a mass shooting. The community reaction highlights the importance of vigilance in preventing acts of violence based on concerns from loved ones.
FAQ
What led to Billy Joe Cagle’s arrest?
Billy Joe Cagle was arrested at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport after making threats to shoot up the airport, following a report from a family member who expressed concerns about his stability and intentions.
What charges does Cagle face?
Cagle faces multiple federal charges including attempted violence at an international airport, interstate communications containing threats, and being a felon in possession of a firearm, as well as state charges such as terroristic threats and firearms-related offenses.
What was found in Cagle’s vehicle?
An AR-15-style firearm and a total of 27 rounds of ammunition were discovered in Cagle’s pickup truck, which was parked in front of the terminal.
What has been the community’s response to this incident?
The community reaction highlights the importance of vigilance in preventing acts of violence based on concerns from loved ones. Cagle’s family expressed gratitude for alerting authorities to potentially prevent a mass shooting.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Arrest Location | Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport |
| Charges | Multiple federal and state charges including attempted violence at an international airport |
| Evidence | AR-15-style firearm and 27 rounds of ammunition found |
| Family Involvement | Family member reported Cagle’s threats to police |
| Mental Health | Cagle has a history of mental health challenges |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Thick Fog Affects Morning Commutes in Metro Atlanta
Festivals and Halloween Events Light Up Atlanta Metro Area
Man Arrested for Threatening Hartsfield-Jackson Airport
Man Arrested for Alleged Mass Shooting Plot at Atlanta Airport
Shooting Near CDC Campus Claims Life of Officer
Impact of Federal Government Shutdown on Georgia’s Small Businesses
Family Alerts Police, Thwart Airport Shooting Attempt in Atlanta
Tropical Storm Melissa Forms, Threatens Haiti and the Dominican Republic
Atlanta Celebrates Halloween with Festive Events and Healthcare Expansion
Billy Joe Cagle Arrested for Planning Mass Shooting at Atlanta Airport
Additional Resources
- 11Alive: Atlanta Airport Shooting Plot
- Reuters: Mass Shooting Averted at Atlanta Airport
- ABC News: Federal Charges against Man Threatening Atlanta Airport
- CBS News: Atlanta Airport Shooting Threat Averted
- WSBTV: Officers Stop Possible Atlanta Airport Shooting
- Wikipedia: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
- Google Search: Atlanta Airport shooting incident
- Google Scholar: Atlanta Airport shooting threat
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Mass Shooting
- Google News: Atlanta Airport shooting
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.
