Two people were arrested after scaling the spire of New York City’s Empire State Building around noon on Wednesday, unfurling a banner and — authorities say — apparently getting engaged during the stunt. The New York Police Department identified the pair as Ivan Kuznetsov, 32, and Angelina Nikolau, 33. The couple, who live in East Orange, New Jersey, are known for climbing skyscrapers and other high-rise structures without ropes or protective gear; Kuznetsov’s social profiles identify him as Ivan Beerkus.
According to law enforcement sources cited by CBS News, the pair face a string of charges, including burglary, reckless endangerment, criminal mischief, violation of local law, possession of burglar’s tools, criminal tampering, criminal trespass and disorderly conduct.
Witnesses and video showed the man and woman, both wearing masks and with no visible safety equipment, clinging to the very top of the landmark while displaying a large black banner with white lettering. The banner read, “When the power of love beats the love of power the world knows peace,” a line often attributed to guitarist Jimi Hendrix.
Investigators told CBS News they believe the climbers accessed the spire through a hatch on the building’s 103rd floor that is typically used for water tower maintenance. Authorities also said the pair appeared to get engaged during the climb before officers took them into custody.
The incident briefly disrupted attention at one of New York’s most iconic tourist sites and underscored ongoing concerns about security and the dangers of unauthorized rooftop stunts.
Original Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/empire-state-building-climb-couple-arrested-after-proposal-atop-new-yorks-skyscraper-video/articleshow/132126648.cms
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Publish Date: 2026-07-02 05:37:00
