BREAKING: Mass Shooting Prevented at Atlanta Airport After Police Work Quickly to Grab Suspect

A potential mass shooting at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport was prevented Monday morning thanks to swift coordination between law enforcement agencies — and a timely warning from the suspect’s own family.

Authorities say a man identified as Billy Joe Cagle was arrested after allegedly threatening to “shoot up” the airport, according to WAGA-TV.

Cagle’s family members alerted Cartersville police after he reportedly made violent threats and announced plans to drive to Atlanta to harm as many people as possible. Police immediately took action, contacting the Atlanta Police Department around 9:40 a.m. and sharing a photo of the suspect.

According to Atlanta police, Cagle entered the airport terminal at 9:31 a.m., staying inside for about 20 minutes before officers located him. Less than 15 minutes after receiving the initial warning, officers apprehended him without incident.

Though Cagle was unarmed at the time of his arrest, officers later discovered an AR-15 rifle in his truck. The weapon had one bullet in the chamber and 26 rounds in the magazine, police said.

Officials praised both the quick-thinking family members who reported Cagle and the officers who responded so rapidly. Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum credited the arresting officers for their decisive actions that likely prevented a tragedy.

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 felon, according to WAGA.

The incident underscores how vigilant families — working hand-in-hand with proactive law enforcement — can save lives when they act quickly on warning signs.