Threat at Atlanta Airport Averted

A man from Georgia was taken into custody on Monday morning at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport after he allegedly threatened to carry out a shooting at the busy location.

According to Atlanta police, 49-year-old Billy Joe Cagle faces several charges, including making terroristic threats, possessing a firearm during a felony, attempted aggravated assault, and being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.

The police in Cartersville reported that Cagle’s family contacted them after they saw him streaming on social media, indicating he was en route to the airport with intentions to “shoot.”

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens commended the family’s timely action and the police response. He remarked that “more than 27 lives could have been lost today because a person with mental health issues came to the airport. Fortunately, the family notified the authorities, which helped avert a crisis.”

Police Chief Darrin Schielbaum informed reporters that Cagle arrived at the airport’s south terminal at approximately 9:29 a.m., and initially, officers did not think he was armed. Surveillance footage showed him approaching a crowded TSA checkpoint.

Officers quickly began searching the area, placing a “high alert” for Cagle and his pickup truck. They were able to locate him at about 9:54 a.m. and took him into custody.

Footage captured Cagle, a large man at 6 feet 3 inches and 320 pounds, being restrained with two sets of handcuffs, during which he could be heard yelling.

As officers conducted a security sweep around the airport’s perimeter, they spotted Cagle’s truck. Inside, they reportedly found an AR-15 rifle loaded with 27 rounds in the back seat, which was secured and confirmed safe.

When asked about Cagle’s cooperation during the investigation, Schielbaum refrained from providing details, mentioning that the case remains ongoing.

Investigators are also looking into Cagle’s motive for the threats, and it has been revealed that he has a notable criminal record, including serious drug-related charges.

Mayor Dickens noted, “This individual had a semi-automatic weapon and also had an intellectual disability. That combination can be very dangerous.”