Atlanta, GA, October 20, 2025
News Summary
A 49-year-old man from Cartersville, Billy Joe Cagle, was arrested at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport after making threats to shoot. His family alerted authorities prior to his arrival, allowing for a quick police response and the prevention of a potential mass shooting. Cagle faces charges for terroristic threats and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. An AR-15 assault rifle was found in his vehicle.
Cartersville Man Arrested at Atlanta Airport After Threatening to “Shoot it Up”
A 49-year-old man, Billy Joe Cagle, from Cartersville, Georgia, was apprehended at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport after threatening to open fire at the busy airport. He was taken into custody shortly after 9:40 a.m. on Monday, following a call from his family that alerted law enforcement to his intentions.
Cagle was livestreaming on social media moments before his arrival at the airport, where he reportedly scouted the area around the TSA check-in, which was bustling with travelers. He reached the airport shortly before 9:30 a.m., and police Chief Darin Schierbaum indicated that Cagle appeared to be assessing the area before potentially returning to obtain a firearm from his pickup truck parked outside.
Hours before his arrest, Cagle’s family had contacted police, indicating that he had made threats concerning the airport. This preemptive alert contributed to a swift police response that ultimately helped avoid a potential mass shooting, with the situation being described as extremely dangerous. An AR-15 assault rifle was subsequently discovered in Cagle’s vehicle.
Criminal Charges and Mental Health Crisis
Cagle was not found armed upon entering the airport, but the situation raised serious alarms due to his threatening behavior. He is now facing multiple charges, including terroristic threats, criminal attempt to commit aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Reports indicate that Cagle was experiencing a mental health crisis at the time of the incident.
This event occurred against the backdrop of long waits and staffing shortages at the TSA, which have been exacerbated by a government shutdown. The combination of a crowded airport and heightened risks posed by individuals like Cagle raised significant concerns for both traveler safety and law enforcement.
The collaboration between Cagle’s family and local authorities has been praised as pivotal in preventing a potential tragedy. Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens mentioned that the situation could have resulted in 27 or more lives being lost if it had escalated. Law enforcement’s rapid response and the assistance of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the FBI in the investigation emphasize the critical nature of vigilance in public spaces.
Background Information
Billy Joe Cagle has a prior criminal history dating back over 20 years, which includes a conviction for marijuana possession. This background, along with his recent threats and mental health crisis, highlights ongoing issues surrounding mental health support and gun access in the context of public safety. The investigation surrounding Cagle’s actions continues as authorities assess the full circumstances and coordinate responses to such threats.
FAQ
Who was arrested at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport?
Billy Joe Cagle, 49, from Cartersville, Georgia, was arrested after threatening to shoot at the airport.
What charges is Cagle facing?
Cagle is facing multiple charges: terroristic threats, criminal attempt to commit aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
What did Cagle have upon entering the airport?
Cagle was not armed when he entered the airport.
What weapon was found related to the incident?
An AR-15 assault rifle was discovered in a pickup truck parked outside the airport.
What role did Cagle’s family play in the incident?
Cagle’s family alerted law enforcement, which helped prevent a potential mass shooting.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Billy Joe Cagle |
| Age | 49 |
| Location of Arrest | Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport |
| Time of Arrest | Shortly after 9:40 a.m. on Monday |
| Charges | Terroristic threats, criminal attempt to commit aggravated assault, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon |
| Weapon Found | AR-15 assault rifle in parked pickup truck |
| Response | Family alerted law enforcement |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- CNN: Cartersville Man Arrested at Atlanta Airport
- New York Times: Atlanta Airport Shooting Threat Arrest
- CBS News: Georgia Man Arrested for Threats at Atlanta Airport
- AJC: Man Threatened to Shoot Up Atlanta Airport
- Fox News: Tragedy Averted at Atlanta Airport
- Wikipedia: Mental Health
- Google Search: Atlanta Airport Security
- Google Scholar: Gun Violence Prevention
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Mental Health Crisis
- Google News: Airport Safety
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
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