Police said a tragedy was averted in Atlanta after they arrested a man accused of planning a shooting at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. The man was arrested inside the terminal on Monday.
Officers said 49-year-old Billy Cagle’s family called for help after he went live on social media saying he was headed to the airport to “shoot it up.” Family members told police he was also in possession of a semi-automatic assault rifle.
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Police found Cagle’s truck parked outside the terminal with an AR-15-style rifle and 27 rounds of ammo inside.
Two officers later found Cagle walking through the south terminal. Officers believe he was scouting the area before retrieving his weapon. Cagle was arrested 25 minutes after arriving at the airport, according to CBS News.
Cagle has since been charged with making terroristic threats, attempted aggravated assault and multiple firearms offenses.
What police are saying
Investigators said Cagle, a convicted felon, has a history of mental health issues. They credited his family for speaking up before it was too late.
“We’re here today briefing you on a success and not a tragedy because a family saw something and said something. A family knew they had a family member in crisis. They knew they had access to firearms, and they were on social media,” said Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum.
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens added, “We’re experiencing across the nation and even in this city where guns and mental health together can be deadly. We’re thankful this crisis was averted today.”
