Atlanta Authorities Prevent Mass Shooting at Major International Airport
Authorities in Atlanta successfully prevented a potentially devastating mass shooting at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. A quick response was triggered when the family of 49-year-old Billy Cagle reported his alarming intent to the police.
Incident Overview
Cagle was suspected of planning to attack the airport with an AR-15 assault rifle. His family informed the police in Cartersville, where they claimed he was livestreaming his intentions on social media, stating that he was “headed to the airport to shoot it up.”
Details of the Arrest
According to Police Chief Darin Schierbaum, security footage captured Cagle entering the airport’s south terminal at 9:29 a.m. He arrived just 11 minutes before authorities in Atlanta were alerted by the family. Officers located Cagle at 9:54 a.m., where he was unarmed.
Weapons and Charges
- Weapon: AR-15 assault rifle
- Ammunition: 27 rounds found in his truck
- Charges: Terroristic threats, aggravated assault, firearms violations
Upon searching his Chevrolet flatbed, authorities recovered the assault rifle along with its ammunition. Schierbaum emphasized the gravity of the situation, noting that the 27 rounds could have been devastating if fired within the busy airport.
Mental Health Concerns
While officials stated that Cagle has “mental challenges,” they did not disclose further information regarding his mental health status. In a concerning Facebook post, Cagle had warned his children that if anything happened to him, they should sue for a substantial amount of money.
Community Response
The quick action of Cagle’s family and the police showcased the effectiveness of vigilance. Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens praised the community’s involvement, emphasizing that their attentiveness likely prevented a tragic loss of life at one of the world’s busiest airports.
Authorities continue to investigate the incident to uncover Cagle’s motive and determine any further actions needed. The situation serves as a critical reminder of the importance of awareness and timely reporting.
