ATLANTA (AP) — A 49-year-old man was arrested at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport on Monday after his family notified police about his plan to commit a mass shooting. Authorities acting on this tip discovered an assault rifle and ammunition in his pickup truck parked just outside the airport entrance.
Billy Joe Cagle, of Cartersville, Georgia, had previously livestreamed his intentions on social media, according to Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum. The chief noted, The Cartersville Police Department was alerted by Cagle's family who reported he was headed to the Atlanta airport to 'shoot it up.' Cagle has a criminal record, making his possession of firearms illegal.
Upon arriving at the airport, police found an AR-15 with 27 rounds of ammunition in Cagle's truck and apprehended him shortly after he entered the terminal. Video footage from police body cameras revealed the tense moments during his arrest, where Cagle was heard yelling as officers took him down.
Charges against Cagle include making terroristic threats, criminal attempt to commit aggravated assault, and possession of firearms by a felon. The investigation continues as authorities will work with federal agencies to ascertain how Cagle obtained the weapon, which he was prohibited from possessing.
Mayor Andre Dickens expressed gratitude for the timely information provided by Cagle's family, stating, We’re thankful to God and good intel for this crisis being averted. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem also commented, emphasizing the importance of swift action by law enforcement in preventing harm.
