Atlanta, GA, October 20, 2025
News Summary
Billy Joe Cagle, a 49-year-old man from Cartersville, was arrested at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport after alarming livestreams prompted his family to call authorities. Police apprehended him shortly after his arrival, discovering an AR-15 rifle and 27 rounds of ammunition in his truck. Cagle faces multiple charges, including making terroristic threats and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. This incident highlights concerns over mental health and gun access within the community.
Atlanta police have apprehended 49-year-old Billy Joe Cagle from Cartersville, Georgia, at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport after his family reported alarming livestreams indicating his intentions to “shoot it up” at the airport. The quick response by authorities, initiated by the concerned family, resulted in a timely arrest, helping to avert a possible mass shooting event.
The police were alerted shortly before 9:30 a.m. on the day of the incident, coinciding with Cagle’s arrival at the airport. Officers were able to locate and arrest him within 15 minutes of receiving the tip, according to body camera footage from the scene. During their investigation, police found an AR-15 assault rifle along with 27 rounds of ammunition in Cagle’s Chevrolet pickup truck parked just outside the airport terminal.
As a convicted felon, Cagle is prohibited from possessing firearms, raising concerns regarding how he acquired the weapon used during the planned attack. Authorities are currently investigating this aspect of the incident. Cagle has been charged with several serious offenses, including making 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 felon.
During the arrest, Cagle was seen approaching the TSA security checkpoint area in the airport, indicating a “high interest” in entering that part of the facility. Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum commented on the collaboration with the community that played a crucial role in preventing potential tragedy. Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens also noted the importance of the timely information provided by Cagle’s family, which was pivotal in averting disaster.
This incident underscores ongoing issues related to mental health and access to firearms in the community, a topic emphasized by officials during a subsequent news conference. The police displayed surveillance and body camera videos during the briefing to highlight the swift action taken to ensure public safety.
As the investigation continues, law enforcement aims to analyze the broader implications regarding mental health support and firearm access in the Atlanta area, following this alarming event.
Key Details of the Incident:
- Arrestee: Billy Joe Cagle, 49, Cartersville, Georgia
- Charges: Making terroristic threats, aggravated assault, possession of firearm during felony, possession by felon
- Time of Arrival at Airport: 9:29 a.m.
- Time of Arrest: Within 15 minutes of 9:29 a.m.
- Weapons Found: AR-15 assault rifle, 27 rounds of ammunition
FAQs
Who was arrested at the Atlanta Airport?
Billy Joe Cagle, a 49-year-old man from Cartersville, Georgia, was arrested.
Why was Billy Joe Cagle arrested?
He was arrested after his family informed the police that he was livestreaming plans to “shoot it up” at the airport.
What charges did Cagle face?
Cagle was charged with making 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 felon.
What type of weapon was found?
An AR-15 assault rifle with 27 rounds of ammunition was discovered in Cagle’s Chevrolet pickup truck parked outside the airport terminal.
How did Cagle get the firearm?
Investigators are examining how he obtained the firearm, as he is prohibited from possessing guns due to his felony status.
Chart: Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Arrestee | Billy Joe Cagle, 49 years old, Cartersville, Georgia |
| Charges | Making terroristic threats, aggravated assault, possession of firearm during felony, possession by felon |
| Arrival Time | 9:29 a.m. |
| Arrest Time | 15 minutes after arrival |
| Weapons Found | AR-15 assault rifle, 27 rounds of ammunition |
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Additional Resources
- CBS News: Georgia man arrested after rifle shooting threats at Atlanta airport
- AJC: Man with semi-automatic weapon threatened to shoot up Atlanta airport, police say
- ABC7: Man planned to shoot at Atlanta’s airport, arrested following tip
- Wikipedia: Mass shooting
- NBC News: Atlanta airport mass shooting prevented
- Google Search: firearm access mental health Georgia
- ABC News: Man allegedly threatened to shoot at Atlanta airport arrested
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Firearm
- WSB TV: Tragedy averted, man with semi-automatic weapon arrested at Atlanta airport
- Google News: Atlanta airport shooting prevented
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.
