Two Daredevils Arrested Following Dramatic Empire State Building Climb
A dramatic stunt atop New York City’s iconic Empire State Building ended with two people being taken into police custody after they climbed the building’s antenna spire, displayed a large peace banner, and appeared to celebrate a marriage proposal.
The pair, identified as well-known urban climbers Angela Nikolau and Ivan Beerkus, reached the restricted upper section of the landmark skyscraper, far above the public observation areas. Witnesses watched as they unfurled a black banner carrying the message, “When the power of love beats the love of power the world knows peace.”
The incident quickly drew the attention of emergency responders, with police deploying helicopters, drones, and specialized rescue teams to monitor the situation.
Proposal Takes Place Hundreds of Feet Above Manhattan
After spending several minutes at the highest accessible point of the building, the pair carefully climbed down to a lower platform on the antenna structure.
Onlookers and aerial footage showed the man getting down on one knee in what appeared to be a marriage proposal. The couple embraced and kissed before authorities moved in.
Shortly afterward, members of the New York Police Department safely detained both individuals without any reported injuries.
Officials later confirmed that they face several criminal charges, including burglary, criminal trespass, and reckless endangerment. Investigators are also working to determine how the climbers gained access to the highly restricted section of the skyscraper.
Authorities Investigating Security Breach
The Empire State Building stands approximately 1,454 feet (443 meters) tall, making the unauthorized climb extremely dangerous. While tourists remained below, emergency officials secured the area and closely monitored the situation until the pair descended.
Authorities recovered the banner used during the stunt and have launched an investigation into the apparent security breach.
The climbers are already known internationally for performing high-risk rooftop adventures on skyscrapers and landmarks around the world. Their latest climb has once again sparked debate over security at famous tourist attractions and the risks associated with extreme urban exploration.
