Climbing the Empire State Building: Couple arrested after proposing atop New York skyscraper – video
Two men were arrested Wednesday afternoon after climbing to the top of New York’s Empire State Building without safety equipment, unfurling a banner and apparently getting engaged during a stunt.The New York Police Department identified the two men as 32-year-old Ivan Kuznetsov and 33-year-old Angelina Nikolau. Kuznetsov’s social media profiles identify him as Ivan Beerkus. The pair, who live in East Orange, New Jersey, are known for climbing skyscrapers and other tall buildings without using ropes or protective gear.The two were charged with burglary, reckless endangerment, criminal mischief, violation of local laws, possession of burglar’s tools, criminal tampering, criminal trespassing and disorderly conduct, CBS News reported, citing law enforcement sources.The incident occurred around noon when a man and a woman, both wearing masks, climbed to the top of the Empire State Building. They appeared to have no visible security equipment and were seen clinging to the building while displaying large black banners with white lettering.The banner reads: “When the power of love overcomes the love of power, there will be peace in the world.”This quote is often attributed to American guitarist Jimi Hendrix.Investigators believe the two entered the tower through a hatch on the building’s 103rd floor that is typically used for water tower maintenance, according to preliminary information law enforcement sources shared with CBS News.Authorities also said the two appeared to have gotten engaged during the climb before being taken into custody.
