Two thrill-seekers have been arrested after breaching security at New York City’s Empire State Building and climbing its restricted antenna to stage a dramatic marriage proposal.
The pair, identified as Russian rooftop climbers Angela Nikolau and Ivan Beerkus, reportedly scaled the upper section of the 1,454-foot (443-metre) skyscraper on Wednesday while dressed in black clothing with their faces covered.
After reaching the summit, they unfurled a large banner bearing the message: “When the power of love beats the love of power, the world knows peace.”
Authorities quickly responded to the incident.
The building’s observation deck was evacuated, an NYPD helicopter was deployed to the scene, and the banner was later removed.
Confirming the arrest, a spokesperson for the New York Police Department said the couple surrendered without resistance.
“Two individuals were taken into custody without incident. There are no injuries reported. Charges are pending, and the investigation is still ongoing,” the spokesperson said.
Videos shared online captured the moment Beerkus went down on one knee to propose before the couple embraced and kissed high above the city skyline.
Footage also showed Nikolau admiring what appeared to be her engagement ring after the proposal.
According to ABC News, Nikolau and Beerkus are well-known urban climbers whose social media accounts feature photographs and videos of them scaling skyscrapers, bridges and other towering structures around the world.
The couple also appeared in the 2024 Netflix documentary Skywalkers: A Love Story, which follows their relationship and dangerous climbing exploits.
Although millions of visitors access the Empire State Building’s observation decks each year, the transmitter antenna above those areas is strictly off-limits to the public.
Authorities have yet to explain how the pair managed to reach the restricted section of the landmark, and investigations into the security breach are ongoing.
