Two individuals who scaled the Empire State Building, unfurled a banner, and one proposed marriage at the skyscraper's apex were taken into custody Wednesday afternoon and are now facing multiple charges.
Angela Nikolau, 33, and Vanya Beerkus, 32, were apprehended by the New York Police Department after the stunt, which took place at a height of 1,454 feet. The charges against them include burglary, reckless endangerment, criminal mischief, criminal trespass, violation of a local law, criminal tampering, disorderly conduct, and possession of burglar's tools.
The pair ascended the spire of the New York City landmark around noon on Wednesday. While at the top, they displayed a banner that read: "When the power of love beats the love of power the world knows peace." This message is a variation of a quote often attributed to William Gladstone.
Following the banner display, the climbers began their descent at approximately 12:30 p.m. On a lower platform, Beerkus proposed to Nikolau. Videos shared by Nikolau shortly after the incident showed the proposal and her acceptance, marked by the couple embracing and sharing a kiss. Nikolau also posted images of the proposal and a diamond ring.
The stunt couple is known for climbing tall structures and were featured in the 2024 Netflix documentary "Skywalkers: A Love Story." Nikolau frequently posts videos and photos of herself and Beerkus engaged in similar high-altitude activities.
Below the building, onlookers and tourists observed the scene, with the Empire State Building's observation deck being cleared. Police cordoned off the area and closed the street as the NYPD responded. The couple was arrested around 1 p.m.
