Atlanta, October 21, 2025
News Summary
Billy Joe Cagle, 49, from Cartersville, has been arrested for allegedly planning a mass shooting at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Facing charges including terroristic threats and possession of a firearm during a felony, Cagle’s family alerted police after he reportedly made threats during a FaceTime call. Law enforcement apprehended him shortly after he arrived at the airport, where an AR-15 rifle was later found in his vehicle. The FBI is involved in the ongoing investigation, and community vigilance has been praised as crucial in preventing potential disaster.
Atlanta
Billy Joe Cagle, a 49-year-old man from Cartersville, has been arrested for allegedly plotting a mass shooting at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Cagle faces multiple charges including terroristic threats, possession of a firearm during a felony commission, criminal attempt to commit aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. His first appearance before a judge is scheduled for Wednesday at 11 a.m.
Law enforcement officials found that Cagle has a criminal history, which includes a three-month prison sentence for marijuana possession in 2000 and a 1997 charge for carrying a concealed weapon in Florida, where adjudication was withheld. On Monday morning, Cagle’s family alerted Cartersville police about threats he made regarding a shooting at the airport, which he reportedly livestreamed on social media.
Cagle is said to have arrived at the airport at approximately 9:30 a.m. Officers from Cartersville contacted the Atlanta Police Department around 9:40 a.m. Cagle was taken into custody at the airport at 9:54 a.m., shortly after the alert was made. At the time of his arrest, he did not have a gun on him, but officers discovered an AR-15 assault rifle in Cagle’s truck parked in the pickup and drop-off lanes, along with 27 rounds of ammunition. The Atlanta Police Chief indicated that Cagle likely intended to return to his truck to retrieve the weapon for violent actions inside the terminal.
According to reports, the family received alarming messages from Cagle during a FaceTime call, where he allegedly stated his intent to “shoot up the airport” in detail. Surveillance footage confirmed that he entered the airport’s busy south terminal around 9:29 a.m., reinforcing the urgency of the situation. Officials noted that Cagle appeared to be experiencing mental health challenges and credited the family’s swift action in contacting authorities as a factor that helped avert disaster.
The investigation is ongoing, with the FBI involved to determine any further motives behind Cagle’s actions. Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens pointed out the significance of community vigilance, declaring that they were fortunate to be discussing a tragedy averted instead of potential mass casualties at the airport.
Background on Cagle’s History
Cagle’s previous offenses include a conviction for marijuana possession and a past charge in Florida concerning the carrying of a concealed weapon. Despite his criminal background, a friend described him as a “great father,” expressing shock at the recent alarming behavior, which was considered out of character.
Community Response and Vigilance
The community’s timely action in reporting Cagle’s threats has been pivotal in preventing what could have been a catastrophic event at one of the busiest airports in the world. Authorities continue to encourage individuals to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behavior as part of ongoing safety measures.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
As Cagle prepares for his initial court appearance, officials remain focused on gathering all necessary information concerning the motives and circumstances surrounding his actions. The legal proceedings will address multiple criminal charges stemming from this incident.
FAQ
What charges is Billy Joe Cagle facing?
Cagle faces multiple charges including terroristic threats, possession of a firearm during a felony commission, criminal attempt to commit aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
When is Cagle’s first court appearance?
His first appearance before a judge is scheduled for Wednesday at 11 a.m.
What was found in Cagle’s truck?
Police discovered an AR-15 assault rifle in Cagle’s truck, parked in the pickup and drop-off lanes, along with 27 rounds of ammunition.
How did law enforcement become aware of Cagle’s threats?
Cagle’s family reported to Cartersville police that he threatened to shoot at the airport and was livestreaming his intentions on social media.
What is the status of the investigation?
The investigation is ongoing, with the FBI involved in determining any further motives behind Cagle’s actions.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Suspect Name | Billy Joe Cagle |
| Location | Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport |
| Arrest Date | Monday morning |
| Charges | Terroristic threats, possession of firearm during felony commission, criminal attempt to commit aggravated assault, possession of firearm by convicted felon |
| Items Found | AR-15 assault rifle, 27 rounds of ammunition |
| Family Involvement | Reported threats to police |
| Judge Appearance | Scheduled for Wednesday at 11 a.m. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Man Arrested at Atlanta Airport with Assault Rifle
Armed Man Arrested at Atlanta Airport After Family Alert
Family Reports Threat, Prevents Airport Shooting
Atlanta Airport Faces Security Delays Amid Government Shutdown
Airport Crisis Averted as Man is Arrested for Threats
Cartersville Man Arrested at Atlanta Airport for Threatening Violence
Metro Atlanta Experiences Dramatic Temperature Drop as Fall Weather Arrives
Rush Announces New Dates for 2026 Tour
Man Arrested After Mass Shooting Threat at Atlanta Airport
Quick Police Response Averts Potential Airport Shooting
Additional Resources
- New York Times: Atlanta Airport Shooting Threat Arrest
- ABC News: Man Allegedly Threatened to Shoot Atlanta Airport
- ABC News: Federal Charges for Man Threatening Atlanta Airport Shooting
- NBC News: Atlanta Airport Mass Shooting Prevented
- 11Alive: Man Arrested Inside Atlanta Airport Planning to Shoot Terminal
- Wikipedia: Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport
- Google Search: Atlanta Airport Shooting Threat
- Google Scholar: Atlanta Airport Shooting Threat
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Atlanta Airport
- Google News: Atlanta Airport Shooting
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.
