Atlanta, GA, October 21, 2025
News Summary
Billy Joe Cagle, 49, was arrested for allegedly plotting a mass shooting at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. The incident unfolded after his family notified police of his threats. Although Cagle didn’t have a firearm at the time of arrest, an AR-15 rifle and ammunition were later found in his vehicle. Authorities believe he was experiencing a mental episode, and his quick apprehension may have averted a major tragedy.
Atlanta police have arrested 49-year-old Billy Joe Cagle from Cartersville for allegedly planning a mass shooting at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport on Monday. Cagle faces multiple charges, including terroristic threats, criminal attempt to commit aggravated assault, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. He is scheduled to appear before a judge on Wednesday at 11 a.m.
Cagle’s arrest came after his family alerted Cartersville police that he was heading to the airport with threats of gun violence. Reports indicate he was livestreaming his threats on social media prior to his arrival. He reached the airport around 9:30 a.m. and was taken into custody approximately 10 minutes later, at 9:54 a.m.
When arrested, Cagle did not possess a firearm on his person. However, police later found an AR-15 assault rifle along with 27 rounds of ammunition in his truck parked outside the airport. Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum stated that Cagle was likely planning to return to use the weapon inside the crowded terminal.
Cagle has a documented criminal history, which includes three months in prison for marijuana possession in 2000 and a 1997 charge for carrying a concealed weapon in Bay County, Florida, with adjudication withheld. Friends described him as a good father and business owner, expressing shock at his recent behavior.
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens highlighted that officials believed Cagle was experiencing a mental episode during the incident and credited the family’s call to the police as critical in preventing potential tragedy. It has been reported that Cagle was on a FaceTime call with family just before the incident, allegedly making threats during the conversation.
The FBI is currently investigating the incident further, with police working to establish a motive behind Cagle’s actions. The quick response from law enforcement, prompted by Cagle’s family, is recognized for potentially averting mass violence at the airport.
FAQ
Who was arrested for planning a mass shooting at Atlanta Airport?
49-year-old Billy Joe Cagle from Cartersville was arrested for allegedly planning a mass shooting at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
What charges is Cagle facing?
Cagle is facing multiple charges, including terroristic threats, criminal attempt to commit aggravated assault, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
What did Cagle’s family do before the arrest?
Cagle’s family alerted Cartersville police that he was on his way to the airport, threatening to shoot, and was livestreaming his threats on social media prior to entering the airport.
What firearm was found in Cagle’s truck?
Police discovered an AR-15 assault rifle with 27 rounds of ammunition in his truck parked outside the airport at the time of his arrest.
What was noted about Cagle’s mental state?
Officials, including Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, believed Cagle was experiencing a mental episode during the incident.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Arrest Date | Monday |
| Suspect | Billy Joe Cagle |
| Location | Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport |
| Charges | Multiple including terroristic threats |
| Firearm Found | AR-15 assault rifle, 27 rounds |
| Response Time | Arrest made 10 minutes after arrival |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- The New York Times
- ABC News: Threatened Shoot
- NBC News: Mass Shooting Prevented
- 11Alive: Man Arrested in Airport
- Wikipedia: Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport
- Google Search: 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.
