Two Arrested After Climbing Empire State Building and Unfurling Banner Before Apparent Proposal
- Jul 1
- 2 min read
NEW YORK, New York — Two people were arrested Wednesday after climbing to the top of the Empire State Building’s 1,454-foot transmission tower, unfurling a large banner, and later appearing to become engaged before being taken into custody.
Authorities identified the pair as Ivan Kuznetsov, 32, and Angelina Nikolau, 33, both of East Orange, New Jersey. Police said the couple has a history of climbing skyscrapers and other tall structures without ropes or safety equipment.
The incident began around noon when the pair climbed above the building’s 103rd floor observation area and displayed a banner reading, “When the power of love beats the love of power, the world knows peace,” a quote often attributed to Jimi Hendrix.
Law enforcement sources said the couple is believed to have accessed the tower through a maintenance hatch on the 103rd floor before climbing the building’s transmission spire without visible safety equipment.
As emergency responders worked to bring them down, the man appeared to propose to the woman on one of the lower platforms of the tower. She accepted, removed her mask, and the two embraced before officers took them into custody.
The New York Police Department’s Emergency Services Unit responded to the scene and safely escorted the pair from the tower. No injuries were reported.
Police charged Kuznetsov and Nikolau with multiple offenses, including burglary, reckless endangerment, criminal mischief, criminal tampering, criminal trespass, possession of burglar’s tools, violating local law, and disorderly conduct.
The Empire State Building later confirmed the incident had been resolved, stating that there was no danger to tenants, visitors, or observation deck guests. Officials also noted that the building offers authorized proposal experiences for couples wishing to celebrate special occasions.
Authorities are continuing to investigate how the pair gained access to the restricted area.
Video Credit: Via: FOX 5 New York
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