Atlanta, Georgia, October 21, 2025
News Summary
Billy Joe Cagle, a 49-year-old man from Cartersville, Georgia, was arrested at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport after his family alerted authorities about his mental health crisis and potential threats. Police apprehended him without incident in the airport, but a loaded AR-15 rifle was later discovered in his truck. Cagle now faces multiple charges, including terroristic threats and firearm possession. His family’s proactive response is credited with averting a potential tragedy.
Atlanta, Georgia – A potential tragedy was averted at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport when 49-year-old Billy Joe Cagle from Cartersville, Georgia, was arrested for making threats shortly after his arrival on October 20, 2025. Concerns from his family about his mental health prior to the incident prompted swift police action, leading to his apprehension without any weapons being found on him.
Cagle’s family had reported to local authorities that he was in the middle of a severe mental health crisis and expressed fears he might harm others. His brother noted Cagle “wasn’t in his right mind” when he drove to the airport, emphasizing his assertion that he “wouldn’t hurt anybody.” A longtime friend also relayed that Cagle posted disturbing messages on his Facebook page over the weekend, prompting him to reach out to Cagle in an effort to check on his well-being.
During that conversation, Cagle reassured his friend that he loved his life and wasn’t planning to do anything harmful, but also indicated a pressing need to return to his medication. Concerned about the situation, Cagle’s family contacted the Cartersville Police, alerting them that he was en route to Atlanta and had made threats against multiple people.
In a well-coordinated response, Cartersville police immediately notified the Atlanta police, sharing Cagle’s photo to assist in identifying him once he reached the airport. Cagle arrived at the South Terminal around 9:29 a.m., entering through door S1. He was located by police approximately 20 minutes later and was arrested at 9:54 a.m. without any weapons on his person.
However, police discovered a loaded AR-15 rifle in his truck parked outside the terminal, which contained one bullet in the chamber and 26 rounds in the magazine. This discovery raised concerns among law enforcement about what could have been a deadly incident, and police chief Darin Schierbaum credited Cagle’s family for their proactive response in preventing a potential crisis. The situation was described by Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens as one where “twenty-seven or more lives could have been lost” had the events escalated further.
Cagle has a prior felony conviction, which prohibits him from legally possessing a firearm. As a result of the incident, he now faces multiple charges, including terroristic threats, attempted aggravated assault, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. At this time, Cagle is being held at the Clayton County Detention Facility, with an expected court appearance forthcoming. Additionally, a dog found in Cagle’s truck has been safely returned to family members.
Background Context
As a business owner in Cartersville, Cagle was known locally for his hardworking nature and kind heart. The events surrounding the airport incident underscore the importance of communication and intervention when dealing with potential mental health crises. Cagle’s situation serves as a reminder of the ongoing mental health challenges many individuals face, and the critical need for support from both families and local authorities.
Key Features Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Arrest Date | October 20, 2025 |
| Location of Arrest | Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport |
| Suspect’s Name | Billy Joe Cagle |
| Charges | Terroristic threats, attempted aggravated assault, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon |
| Weapon Found | Loaded AR-15 rifle in his truck |
| Outcome | Arrested without weapon on person, held at Clayton County Detention Facility |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was arrested for threatening Hartsfield-Jackson Airport?
49-year-old Billy Joe Cagle from Cartersville, Georgia, was arrested for making threats at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
What triggered the police response?
Cagle’s family reported concerns about his mental health prior to the incident, stating he was suffering from a severe mental health crisis.
What charges is Cagle facing?
Cagle is facing multiple charges, including terroristic threats, attempted aggravated assault, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
What was found in Cagle’s truck?
A loaded AR-15 rifle was found in his truck parked outside the terminal, with one bullet in the chamber and 26 rounds in the magazine.
What happened to the dog found in Cagle’s truck?
A dog found in Cagle’s truck was safely returned to family members.
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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.
