A man is facing multiple charges after police reported that he threatened to shoot up Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and was subsequently arrested with a gun in his truck. This alarming incident unfolded on a Monday morning, raising serious concerns about airport security and public safety.
According to the police, Billy Joe Cagle was taken into custody after his family contacted the Cartersville police. They informed authorities that he was driving to Atlanta and making threats to harm as many people as possible. The Cartersville police acted swiftly, alerting the Atlanta Police Department about Cagle's threats around 9:40 a.m. and sharing his photo for identification purposes.
It was reported that Cagle entered the terminal through door S1 at approximately 9:31 a.m. He remained inside the airport for about 20 minutes before law enforcement officers spotted him. Remarkably, officers arrested Cagle at 9:54 a.m., less than 15 minutes after being notified of the threats. At the time of his arrest, Cagle did not have any weapons on his person; however, police discovered an AR-15 rifle in his truck, which was loaded with one bullet in the chamber and 26 rounds in the magazine.
Officials have commended Cagle's family for their quick action in contacting law enforcement, stating that their proactive measures likely prevented a potential tragedy. This incident serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of the "see something, say something" campaign. Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum expressed gratitude towards Officers Gibson and Banks, who were instrumental in apprehending Cagle, and Sgt. Jones, who coordinated the information flow during the incident.
Cagle is now facing serious charges, including terroristic threats, criminal attempt to commit aggravated assault, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, and possession of a firearm by a felon. According to records from the Georgia Department of Corrections, Cagle has a criminal history dating back over two decades, including a conviction for possession of marijuana.
This incident at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport highlights critical issues surrounding security and public safety in transportation hubs. The swift actions of both the family and law enforcement showcase the effectiveness of community vigilance in preventing potential threats. As the legal proceedings unfold, the case will continue to draw attention from both the media and the public, underscoring the importance of safety in our communities.
