Quick police response and family intervention prevented what could have been a devastating mass shooting at Atlanta’s busiest airport, demonstrating how proper mental health crisis management and law enforcement coordination can save lives.
Story Snapshot
- Billy Joe Cagle, 49, threatened to “shoot up” Atlanta airport during a livestream before driving there with AR-15.
- The family immediately alerted the Cartersville Police after hearing the threat, enabling a rapid response.
- Officers arrested Cagle within 25 minutes of his arrival, finding a rifle and 27 rounds in his truck.
- Police believe he was scouting the terminal before returning for his weapon.
Family Alert Triggers Swift Police Response
Billy Joe Cagle’s family contacted Cartersville Police Monday morning after the 49-year-old man announced during a livestream his intention to drive to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport to “shoot it up.”
The family’s quick action enabled law enforcement to coordinate an immediate response. Cartersville Police promptly shared Cagle’s photo and description with Atlanta Police, who were monitoring for his arrival at the world’s busiest airport.
Suspect Apprehended During Reconnaissance Mission
Officers discovered Cagle’s Chevrolet truck parked outside the South Terminal shortly after 9 a.m., containing a Springfield AR-15 rifle and 27 rounds of ammunition in the backseat.
Two Atlanta Police officers located Cagle walking inside the terminal within 15 minutes of receiving the alert from Cartersville authorities. Police Chief Darren Schierbaum stated investigators believe Cagle was conducting reconnaissance of the terminal layout before returning to retrieve his weapon and execute his plan.
Police say they stopped a man who brought a rifle to Atlanta's airport after threatening to "shoot it up." https://t.co/uZKZ5hh8Ut
— CBS News (@CBSNews) October 20, 2025
Mental Health Crisis Highlights Ongoing Concerns
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens emphasized that Cagle was experiencing a mental health crisis when he made the threat and traveled to the airport. The mayor noted this incident reflects broader national concerns about the dangerous intersection of mental health issues and firearms access.
Dickens referenced recent violent incidents in Atlanta, including a deadly shooting at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as examples of this troubling pattern affecting communities nationwide.
Comprehensive Criminal Charges Filed
Prosecutors charged Cagle with multiple felonies reflecting the severity of his intended actions and criminal history. The charges include terroristic threats, criminal attempt to commit aggravated assault, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, and possession of a firearm by a felon.
The final charge indicates Cagle was legally prohibited from owning firearms, raising questions about how he obtained the AR-15. Police Chief Schierbaum praised the collaborative effort, stating this case demonstrates how community vigilance and law enforcement coordination should function to protect public safety.
