ATLANTA, Oct. 20, 2025 — A 49‑year‑old Georgia man was taken into custody on Monday morning after allegedly driving to Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport with an assault rifle and threatening to “shoot up” the terminal, police confirmed.
The suspect, identified as Billy Joe Cagle of Cartersville, was intercepted shortly after 9 a.m. following a tip‑off from his family, who had contacted police after he reportedly livestreamed his intentions on social media and during a video call.
Arrest and Seizure
Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum said officers located Cagle’s pickup truck outside the South Terminal, where they discovered a Springfield AR‑15 rifle and 27 rounds of ammunition. He was arrested without shots being fired and is facing charges including terroristic threats and illegal possession of a firearm.
Officials’ Response
At a press conference, Mayor Andre Dickens praised the rapid response of law enforcement, stating: “Twenty‑seven or more lives could have been lost today. Because of the vigilance of family members and the hard work of our officers, a tragedy was prevented.”
Authorities added that Cagle, a convicted felon, was experiencing a mental health crisis at the time of the incident. He remains in custody as investigators review his online activity and communications.
Security Context
The incident comes amid heightened concerns over airport security and gun violence in the United States. Hartsfield‑Jackson, the world’s busiest airport by passenger traffic, has previously dealt with firearm‑related security breaches, though officials stressed that Monday’s swift intervention prevented any shots from being fired inside the facility.
Outlook
Police said there is no ongoing threat to the public, but emphasized the importance of community vigilance in reporting potential dangers. The case will now proceed to the Fulton County District Attorney’s Office for prosecution.
Summary: A Georgia man armed with an AR‑15 rifle was arrested at Atlanta’s airport after threatening to open fire. Authorities say a family tip and rapid police action prevented a possible mass shooting that could have claimed dozens of lives.
Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport in Georgia Picture by Harrison Keely
Sources: Atlanta Police Department; CBS News; ABC News; Daily Mail; Georgia Public Broadcasting.
