Convicted Felon with AR-15 Arrested After Threatening to ‘Shoot Up’ Airport [WATCH]

Police in Atlanta arrested a 49-year-old convicted felon on Monday after he allegedly threatened to carry out a mass shooting at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, as reported by The Gateway Pundit.

Authorities say the suspect, identified as Bill Joe Cagle, made violent threats over a FaceTime call before being taken into custody with a firearm.

According to law enforcement officials, Cagle reportedly called a family member on FaceTime and told them he intended to “shoot up” the airport. The family member alerted authorities, prompting a swift response from Atlanta police.

This crazy guy was about to commit a mass shooting at Hartsfield-Jackson Airport in Atlanta. 49-year-old Billy Joe Cagle ARRESTED! Caught at the airport armed. SCARY STUFF!https://t.co/Xqbk2Xhx8D pic.twitter.com/lnfExnxClm

— JLR© (@JLRINVESTIGATES) October 20, 2025

Investigators located Cagle at the airport, where he was arrested without incident. Officers later recovered an AR-15 rifle, or a similar type of firearm, from his vehicle, according to officials. Police said the incident was contained quickly and did not result in any injuries or disruption to airport operations.

At a press conference held Monday afternoon, Atlanta Police Department officials confirmed the arrest and stated that Cagle was already known to law enforcement. “We were familiar with Billy Cagle,” an Atlanta police spokesperson said.

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The department described him as “mentally challenged” but emphasized that the case is being treated as a serious criminal threat.

Cagle now faces multiple charges, including making 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 convicted felon.

Police confirmed that Cagle’s prior convictions made it illegal for him to possess any firearm.

UPDATE: More on Billy Cagle, the suspect who arrived at the Atlanta airport with an AR-15 https://t.co/aYSPauD2mp pic.twitter.com/XYQGW8W7QT

— Not the Bee (@Not_the_Bee) October 20, 2025

Fox 5 Atlanta reported that authorities were first notified after Cagle’s family member contacted police about the disturbing call. Atlanta police quickly located the suspect and placed him under arrest at the airport.

Investigators are continuing to review the case and determine whether any additional charges will be filed. Federal authorities are also expected to review the incident due to the involvement of an airport and the nature of the threats.

Police stated that there was no active shooter situation and that operations at Hartsfield-Jackson — one of the busiest airports in the world — continued without major delays.

BREAKING: A convicted felon armed with an AR-15 allegedly planned to OPEN FIRE at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport.

Police say the suspect managed to get inside before being swiftly stopped and arrested. pic.twitter.com/8t56Z7s8OD

— Timcast News (@TimcastNews) October 20, 2025

The department’s quick response and the tip from the suspect’s family likely prevented a potential tragedy. Atlanta police said additional updates would be provided as the investigation continues.

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