A potential mass shooting at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, one of the busiest airports globally, was averted on Monday morning. The incident was prevented after the family of the suspect, Billy Joe Cagle, alerted the police about his intentions. Cagle’s relatives informed the Cartersville Police Department that he had broadcasted his plans to attack the airport on social media.
According to Atlanta Police Department Chief Darin Schierbaum, Cagle’s family reported that the 49-year-old was armed with an assault rifle. However, by the time the information reached the police, Cagle had already arrived at the airport and entered the south domestic terminal around 9:29 a.m., as seen in video footage.
Schierbaum noted that Cagle seemed particularly interested in the TSA check-in area, which was heavily crowded with travelers at the time. After receiving the alert from Cartersville police at 9:40 a.m., Atlanta police located Cagle and apprehended him within 14 minutes.
Upon searching Cagle’s parked Chevy flatbed outside the terminal, police discovered a Springfield AR-15 assault rifle loaded with 27 rounds of ammunition. Schierbaum expressed his gratitude to the officers involved in the operation, stating that their swift action likely prevented a tragedy.
Cagle, who has a previous felony conviction, was arrested and charged with suspicion of terroristic threats, criminal attempt to commit aggravated assault, and firearms charges. He had previously served time in Georgia in 2000 for possession of marijuana.
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens referred to Cagle as having “mental challenges,” without providing further details. In a Facebook post prior to the incident, Cagle had written about his fears of being set up or killed, and mentioned that he was on medication for schizophrenia.
The incident is still under investigation as authorities continue to probe for a possible motive. Cagle’s relatives have not responded to requests for comment.