A potential mass shooting was thwarted at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport after a man, identified as Billy Joe Cagle (49), was arrested inside the South Terminal following a family tip-off. Cagle allegedly live-streamed threats to “shoot up” the terminal with an AR-15-style rifle.
Quick action by family members, the Cartersville Police Department, and Atlanta Police led to Cagle’s swift apprehension. Authorities located his truck parked outside the terminal, recovering an AR-15 rifle and 27 rounds of ammunition inside.
Bodycam footage released by the Atlanta Police Department shows officers locating and subduing Cagle inside the crowded terminal. Mayor Andre Dickens praised the “See Something, Say Something” principle, emphasizing that the quick response prevented a potential tragedy. Cagle is facing federal charges, including possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, criminal intent to commit aggravated assault, and terroristic threats.
The incident is currently under investigation by the FBI.
The available video is about the man with an assault rifle arrested after threatening to ‘shoot up’ Atlanta airport, which provides context.
- https://youtu.be/xWP6ci0bbqE?si=KsWPR1Otz9wSc7WY