A 49-year-old man was apprehended Monday morning at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport after allegedly threatening to carry out a violent attack at one of its terminals. The airport, one of the world’s most traveled hubs, avoided potential catastrophe thanks to swift action by authorities.
Atlanta police identified Billy Joe Cagle of Cartersville as the suspect, with Mayor Andre Dickens describing him as having “mental challenges.” Cagle faced multiple charges, including terroristic threats, possession of a firearm during a felony, criminal attempt to commit aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Authorities discovered 27 rounds of ammunition and a Springfield AR-15 rifle in his truck at the airport.
Cagle had reportedly livestreamed on social media about plans to “shoot it up” before arriving at the airport just after 9 a.m. His family, aware of his alleged threats, alerted Cartersville Police, who had prior interactions with Cagle, a previously convicted felon. The information was relayed to Atlanta Police, prompting an immediate search.
Cagle’s Chevrolet flatbed pickup was found parked outside the South Terminal at 9:54 a.m., and he was arrested inside the terminal shortly after. Video footage showed officers using two sets of handcuffs to subdue the 6-foot-3, 320-pound man, who screamed during the arrest. A safety sweep uncovered the AR-15 in his truck, which was later cleared, and the area declared safe.
Details about Cagle’s cooperation or motives remain under investigation. Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum noted Cagle’s criminal history, including a prior drug-possession arrest, while Dickens emphasized the danger posed by individuals with mental health issues and access to firearms.
