Two people were arrested after climbing to the very top of the Empire State Building and staging an apparent marriage proposal.
The duo, identified as Russian rooftop climbers, unfurled a large black banner with a peace‑related message before police took them into custody.
Key Facts
- Angela Nikolau and Ivan Beerkus were arrested.
- The incident occurred on the spire, above public access areas.
- They displayed a black banner reading: “When the power of love beats the love of power the world knows peace.”
- Both are described as “rooftoppers” who have performed similar stunts in other cities.
What happened?
According to The Guardian, the two climbers dressed in black, wore masks, and reached the pinnacle of the skyscraper, a part of the structure not open to visitors.
There they unfurled the banner and announced an apparent marriage proposal before authorities intervened.
Who are the individuals?
The pair are named as Angela Nikolau and Ivan Beerkus, identified as Russian “rooftoppers” known for scaling high‑rise buildings.
Previous stunts attributed to them include climbs in Tianjin, China and Los Angeles.
What do we know — and what we don’t
Verified by the source:
- The two individuals were arrested after climbing the Empire State Building’s spire.
- They unfurled a large black banner with a specific peace‑related message.
- They are Russian and have a history of similar rooftop stunts.
Still unconfirmed:
- Any legal charges that will be filed.
- The exact time the incident occurred.
- Whether the marriage proposal was genuine or staged for publicity.
Why it matters
The episode highlights security challenges for iconic landmarks and raises questions about the motivations of individuals who pursue high‑profile stunts.
What to watch
Further statements from law enforcement or the individuals involved will clarify the legal outcomes and any intended messages.