Russian Climbers Angela Nikolau and Ivan Beerkus (Kuznetsov) have been arrested after illegally climbing the spire of the Empire State Building in New York City, where they unfurled a banner and appeared to get engaged before being taken into custody.
The couple, who are known for documenting dangerous rooftop climbs around the world, allegedly gained access to a restricted area of the iconic skyscraper before scaling its 1,454-foot transmission spire without safety equipment. During the stunt, they displayed a banner which read thus:
“When the power of love beats the love of power the world knows peace.”
After descending from the spire, At the top, Beerkus proposed to Angela leaving people in awe.
Following the viral July 1, 2026, climb and engagement atop the Empire State Building, The couple were reportedly arrested by the New York City Police Department (NYPD).
According to reports Angela Nikolau and Ivan Beerkus are currently in the custody of the NYPD and the couple are charged with eight separate offenses.
The criminal offences which include; burglary, reckless endangerment, criminal mischief, criminal tampering, criminal trespass, disorderly conduct, possession of burglar’s tools, and violation of local laws (specifically rules banning the scaling of structures over 50 feet without authorization).
However, the charges remain allegations as of the time of this report as the case awaits formal arraignment in Manhattan criminal court.
By Musekir Faisat OmolaraÂ
