Atlanta, October 20, 2025
News Summary
In a swift response to a credible threat, Atlanta authorities arrested 49-year-old Billy Joe Cagle for making terroristic threats against Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. His family alerted police after he livestreamed intentions to shoot at the airport. Cagle was apprehended with a loaded AR-15 assault rifle found in his truck. This incident underscores the importance of community vigilance and responsive law enforcement in preventing potential tragedies.
Atlanta
Authorities in Atlanta successfully thwarted a potential mass shooting at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport after a family member alerted police regarding alarming statements made by 49-year-old Billy Joe Cagle. Cagle was arrested for making terroristic threats and possessing an AR-15 assault rifle loaded with 27 rounds of ammunition.
Family members residing in Cartersville contacted the police following a livestream in which Cagle expressed his intention to “shoot up” the airport while en route with a firearm. His family reported that he suffers from mental challenges, prompting concerns and immediate action.
According to Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum, the swift response from law enforcement, coupled with the family’s timely alert, prevented what could have been a significant tragedy. Cagle arrived at the busy airport’s South Terminal at 9:29 a.m. and was tracked down by officers by 9:54 a.m.
Security footage revealed Cagle’s apparent fixation on the TSA check-in area, which was crowded at the time. Upon police arrival, Cagle was found unarmed inside the terminal, but authorities later discovered the loaded AR-15 rifle concealed in his parked Chevrolet truck outside.
Chief Schierbaum underscored that due to the community’s prompt reporting and the rapid action taken by law enforcement, multiple lives were saved during the incident. Additionally, Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens stressed the significance of the “See something, say something” initiative in the aftermath of the foiled crisis.
Cagle now faces multiple charges, including terroristic threats, criminal attempt to commit aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm during a felony. Investigations into Cagle’s motive are ongoing, focusing on his mental health issues and a previous felony conviction for drug possession.
Previously, Cagle had made posts on Facebook, expressing fears for his personal safety and hinting at potential legal action by his children if any harm were to befall him. This incident has highlighted the crucial role that family and community vigilance play in ensuring public safety.
Key Points of the Incident
- Cagle was arrested after relatives reported his threat to shoot at the airport.
- He was carrying an AR-15 assault rifle and ammunition.
- Immediate police response helps avert harm at a crowded location.
- Cagle faces multiple serious charges regarding the incident.
Investigation Details
Authorities continue to delve into Cagle’s background to ascertain his motivations for the threat. His mental health status and prior legal issues will be essential elements in the ongoing investigation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges is Billy Joe Cagle facing?
Cagle faces charges including terroristic threats, criminal attempt to commit aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm during a felony.
How did authorities learn about the potential threat?
Cagle’s family in Cartersville contacted police after he livestreamed intentions to “shoot up” Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
What was found in Cagle’s possession at the airport?
Police found Cagle unarmed inside the terminal, but discovered the AR-15 assault rifle in his parked Chevrolet truck outside.
What did Atlanta Police Chief emphasize about the incident?
Chief Schierbaum emphasized that, due to community tips and quick law enforcement action, lives were saved during this incident.
Summary of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Individual arrested | Billy Joe Cagle, 49 |
| Type of Threat | Terroristic threats against Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport |
| Weapon involved | AR-15 assault rifle, 27 rounds of ammunition |
| Response Time | Police located Cagle within 25 minutes of arrival at the airport |
| Charges filed | Terroristic threats, criminal attempt to commit aggravated assault, possession of a firearm during a felony |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Wikipedia: Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport
- Google Search: Atlanta Airport Shooting Threat
- Google Scholar: Atlanta Airport Shooting
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Atlanta
- Google News: Atlanta Airport 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.
