• A family alerted police about a relative planning a mass shooting at Atlanta Airport.
• Billy Joe Cagle was arrested with an assault rifle and ammunition.
• The incident highlights the importance of community vigilance in preventing violence.
• Cagle faces multiple charges, including making terroristic threats.
• The authorities confirmed no injuries occurred due to prompt police action.

On October 20, police arrested 49-year-old Billy Joe Cagle at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport after receiving a tip from his family. They reported he had livestreamed his intention to "shoot it up" at the airport. Cagle was apprehended shortly after entering the terminal with an assault rifle and ammunition found in his truck parked nearby, according to latimes and indiatimes.

Upon the family's alert to the Cartersville Police Department, officers quickly contacted the Atlanta Police Department. Cagle was described as having "high interest" in the TSA check-in area, raising concerns that he intended to use the weapon there, reports thehill and reuters.

After being taken into custody, Cagle faces multiple charges, including making terroristic threats and possession of a firearm by a felon. Police stated he had prior convictions, and during the family’s concern, they mentioned he was undergoing a mental health crisis, highlighting the role mental health issues may play in such incidents, according to latimes, indiatimes, and reuters.

Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum praised the family's vigilance, stating, "We’re here today briefing you on a success and not a tragedy because a family saw something and said something." The swift actions of law enforcement have been credited with averting potential disaster at one of the world's busiest airports, according to thehill and reuters.