Atlanta, October 21, 2025
News Summary
Billy Joe Cagle, 49, was arrested at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport after family members expressed concerns about potential violence. Authorities apprehended him shortly after receiving a report about his alarming behavior. An AR-15 assault rifle and 27 rounds of ammunition were found in his truck outside the airport. Cagle faces several charges, including making terroristic threats and firearm offenses. This incident highlights the importance of community vigilance and timely police intervention in preventing violence.
Atlanta – A 49-year-old man, identified as Billy Joe Cagle from Cartersville, Georgia, was arrested at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport following a family report expressing fears of potential violence. Family members alerted authorities, fearing that Cagle might use a firearm while at the airport.
Cagle arrived at the airport around 9:30 a.m. on the morning of the incident and was reportedly livestreaming on social media prior to his arrival. At approximately 9:40 a.m., police in Cartersville notified the Atlanta Police Department regarding Cagle’s behavior and his intent. Within ten minutes of the alert, law enforcement officials apprehended him inside the airport terminal.
Upon Cagle’s arrest, officers discovered an AR-15 assault rifle and 27 rounds of ammunition in his truck, which was parked outside the airport. It’s important to note that Cagle was not carrying a firearm at the time he was taken into custody. Officer Myesha Banks commented on the necessity of stopping Cagle from possibly acting on his intentions, highlighting the swift response by law enforcement.
Sgt. Tywana Jones remarked on the critical information provided by Cagle’s family, which enabled officers to quickly identify and locate him. This prompt action was underscored by Atlanta’s Mayor, Andre Dickens, who stated that the arrest potentially saved “27 or more lives,” emphasizing the connection between community vigilance and police intervention.
Cagle faces multiple charges, including making terroristic threats and criminal attempt to commit aggravated assault, as well as various firearms offenses, such as felony possession of a firearm. Additionally, federal charges have been filed against him for attempted violence at an international airport and for interstate communication that contained threats.
This incident is particularly noteworthy given Cagle’s prior criminal record, which includes a felony conviction from 2000 for possession of marijuana with intent to distribute and a misdemeanor for carrying a concealed weapon unlawfully. His personal situation has also raised concerns; Cagle has faced financial difficulties, such as properties in loan default and filed for bankruptcy protection in 2011. Moreover, his wife, Tiffany Beck Cagle, filed for divorce, citing reasons including “cruel treatment” and “habitual drug addiction.”
The incident has drawn attention to broader societal concerns regarding the intersections of mental health and gun violence, emphasizing the importance of addressing these issues within the community.
Key Details of the Incident
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Suspect Name | Billy Joe Cagle |
| Age | 49 |
| Location | Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport |
| Charges | Terroristic threats, assault attempt, firearms offenses |
| Firearms Found | AR-15 assault rifle, 27 rounds of ammunition |
| Time of Arrest | Approximately 9:40 a.m. |
FAQ
Who was arrested at the Atlanta airport?
The lone suspect arrested is identified as Billy Joe Cagle, 49, from Cartersville, Georgia.
Why did authorities arrest Billy Joe Cagle?
Cagle’s family reported him to police, expressing fears he might shoot at the airport.
What charges has Cagle faced?
Cagle has been charged with making terroristic threats, criminal attempt to commit aggravated assault, and various firearms offenses, including felony possession of a firearm.
What did police find in Cagle’s truck?
Officers found an AR-15 assault rifle and 27 rounds of ammunition in Cagle’s truck parked outside the airport.
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Additional Resources
- NBC News
- Wikipedia: Atlanta International Airport
- CBS News
- Google Search: Atlanta airport shooting
- New York Times
- Google Scholar: Atlanta airport shooting
- Atlanta News First
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gun violence
- ABC News
- 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.
