Angela Nikolau and Ivan Beerkus Climb Empire State Building Antenna, Unfurl Peace Banner During Proposal (See Pics and Videos)

A couple climbed the 1,454-foot antenna atop New York City's Empire State Building on Wednesday, July 1, unfurled a peace banner and staged a marriage proposal before descending, prompting a police response and an ongoing investigation. Several videos of the high-rise stunt have surfaced on social media, while authorities later took the pair into custody.

The individuals have been identified on social media as Angela Nikolau and Ivan Beerkus, who also shared photographs from the top of the skyscraper on Instagram with the caption, "Empire State Building, New York." Authorities have not officially confirmed their identities. Taylor Swift, Travis Kelce’s Wedding Destination Confirmed; Plans Include 2,000-Guest Celebration at New York’s Madison Square Garden.

Couple Climbs Empire State Building Antenna, Unfurls Peace Banner and Propose

 

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Taken in Custody

Peace Banner Displayed Atop Landmark

Witnesses saw the pair, dressed in dark clothing, near the top of the Midtown Manhattan skyscraper holding a large banner that read: "When the power of love beats the love of power the world knows peace."

According to the New York Post, the woman appeared to be wearing a black cat mask as the pair dangled from the antenna, at times hanging with only one hand, drawing the attention of people below. Several videos circulating online captured the couple standing on the antenna before beginning their descent. One World Trade Centre Hit by Lightning: Dramatic Video Shows Lightning Strike on US Tallest Building in NYC.

After remaining near the top of the antenna for around 30 minutes, the pair climbed down toward the building's observation platform, which appeared to have been evacuated during the incident.

According to videos shared online, once they reached a platform near the base of the antenna, the man appeared to kneel and present the woman with what appeared to be an engagement ring.

The two then embraced and kissed.

New York City police officers and Empire State Building security personnel responded to the scene, while helicopters circled above the landmark during the operation. Authorities have not explained how the couple gained access to the antenna or managed to climb the structure.

Officials have not released any information about a possible motive or whether criminal charges will be filed. The investigation remains ongoing. The couple has been taken into custody.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 01, 2026 11:17 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).