Georgia Man Arrested at Atlanta Airport with Rifle After Threats, Say Police
Authorities successfully averted a potential mass shooting at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport thanks to a tip from the suspect’s family and the swift actions of law enforcement. The incident unfolded on Monday morning when 49-year-old Billy Joe Cagle from Cartersville was reported to have threatened to “shoot it up” in a livestream.
Details of the Incident
At approximately 9 a.m., Cartersville Police received alarming information from Cagle’s family. They reported that he was en route to the airport with a semi-automatic weapon. Atlanta Police Chief Darren Schierbaum confirmed that Cagle arrived at the airport shortly thereafter.
Cagle’s Actions at the Airport
- Officers identified Cagle’s Chevrolet truck parked outside the South Terminal.
- They discovered a Springfield AR-15 rifle and 27 rounds of ammunition in the backseat.
- Cagle was seen walking inside the terminal, likely scouting the area before retrieving his weapon.
Less than 15 minutes after receiving the alert, police apprehended Cagle, who claimed he had merely been dropped off at the airport. His arrest occurred about 25 minutes after he parked his vehicle.
Community Response
Chief Schierbaum praised Cagle’s family for their prompt reporting, emphasizing the crucial role community cooperation plays in preventing tragedies. “Today is how it should work,” he stated. “Dedicated men and women in uniform are trained to respond when their community needs them.”
Charges Filed Against Cagle
Following the incident, Billy Joe Cagle faces multiple charges:
- Terroristic threats
- Criminal attempt to commit aggravated assault
- Possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony
- Possession of a firearm by a felon
Mayor Andre Dickens commented on the broader implications of the event, linking it to ongoing issues concerning mental health and gun violence in the city and nationwide. He expressed gratitude that this crisis was successfully averted, highlighting the importance of awareness and intervention.
