ATLANTA (API) — Authorities managed to avert a significant threat at the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport on Monday, owing to a timely alert from a family member concerned about a man planning to commit violence. Billy Joe Cagle, 49, was arrested after his family reported that he was livestreaming his intentions on social media, stating he would shoot it up.
Upon arrival at the airport in a Chevrolet pickup, police found Cagle in possession of an AR-15 and 27 rounds of ammunition parked right outside the terminal doors. Police Chief Darin Schierbaum confirmed that Cagle was a convicted felon, prohibited from owning firearms.
The Cartersville Police Department's prompt action was crucial, as Captain Greg Sparacio stated, Cagle “had the intention to inflict harm to as many people as he could.” Surveillance footage showed him entering the airport hours after his arrival.
During the news briefing, the police shared video evidence of Cagle’s entry and arrest, where officers used a family-provided photo to identify him amidst the crowd. He was taken into custody without any further incident, though he reportedly resisted arrest.
Cagle now faces several serious charges, including making terroristic threats and illegally possessing a firearm. Atlanta police are collaborating with federal authorities to investigate how he acquired the weapon. Mayor Andre Dickens expressed his gratitude for the community's vigilance, emphasizing the critical role that proactive reporting played in preventing a potential tragedy.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem also recognized the swift response of law enforcement in thwarting what could have been a deadly situation.
Upon arrival at the airport in a Chevrolet pickup, police found Cagle in possession of an AR-15 and 27 rounds of ammunition parked right outside the terminal doors. Police Chief Darin Schierbaum confirmed that Cagle was a convicted felon, prohibited from owning firearms.
The Cartersville Police Department's prompt action was crucial, as Captain Greg Sparacio stated, Cagle “had the intention to inflict harm to as many people as he could.” Surveillance footage showed him entering the airport hours after his arrival.
During the news briefing, the police shared video evidence of Cagle’s entry and arrest, where officers used a family-provided photo to identify him amidst the crowd. He was taken into custody without any further incident, though he reportedly resisted arrest.
Cagle now faces several serious charges, including making terroristic threats and illegally possessing a firearm. Atlanta police are collaborating with federal authorities to investigate how he acquired the weapon. Mayor Andre Dickens expressed his gratitude for the community's vigilance, emphasizing the critical role that proactive reporting played in preventing a potential tragedy.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem also recognized the swift response of law enforcement in thwarting what could have been a deadly situation.
