Atlanta Airport Shooting Threat Averted After Family Alert

A man was arrested at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport on Monday. Billy Joe Cagle was taken into custody after his own family warned police he was armed and intended to “shoot it up.” The quick intervention by relatives and law enforcement is credited with preventing a potential tragedy.

Authorities confirmed the arrest occurred around 9:30 a.m. at the airport’s south terminal. While Cagle was unarmed when apprehended, a significant weapon was later discovered, escalating the seriousness of the charges he now faces.

AR-15 Rifle Seized in Follow-Up Investigation

Following the arrest, investigators located Cagle’s parked car. Inside, they found an AR-15 assault rifle. This discovery confirmed the initial threat reported by his family and added a major felony charge to his list of offenses.

Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum described the incident as a “tragedy averted.” According to Reuters reporting, Cagle has been charged with making terroristic threats and criminal conspiracy to carry out aggravated assaults. Additional charges include possession of a firearm in the commission of a felony and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

Mental Health and Firearm Access a Key Concern

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens addressed the public, highlighting a dangerous combination of factors. He stated the individual was “mentally challenged” and in possession of a semi-automatic weapon. The mayor emphasized that this combination can turn out to be deadly.

The situation underscores the critical role of community intervention. Cagle’s family in Cartersville alerted their local police, who then notified the Atlanta Police Department. This chain of communication allowed officers to locate and detain Cagle before he could act on his threats. Chief Schierbaum noted Cagle appeared particularly interested in the heavily crowded TSA check-in area.

This swift police action at the Atlanta airport highlights how proactive measures can prevent violence. The case continues to develop as federal authorities assist with the investigation into the averted shooting threat.

Info at your fingertips

What did Billy Joe Cagle’s family report?

His family alerted police that he was armed and had made threats. They reported he stated on a social media broadcast he was headed to the airport to “shoot it up.” This warning was crucial for his apprehension.

What weapon was found?

Investigators discovered an AR-15 assault rifle in Billy Joe Cagle’s parked car. He was unarmed at the exact moment of his arrest inside the airport terminal.

What are the charges against him?

Cagle faces multiple felony charges. These include terroristic threats, criminal conspiracy, and firearm possession by a convicted felon. His prior conviction was for marijuana possession over two decades ago.

How did police find him so quickly?

Police located him after a coordinated effort. His family contacted Cartersville police, who then immediately notified the Atlanta Police Department. Officers then located him in the airport’s south terminal.

Who is assisting with the investigation?

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is assisting local authorities with the probe. The case involves federal interests due to the location and nature of the threat.