Daredevil couple ID'd after being arrested for brazen climb to top of Empire State Building
The couple has been identified as Angela Nikolau and Ivan Beerkus
NEW YORK -- Two people wearing black were taken into custody after they climbed to the very top of the Empire State Building, unfurled a banner and appeared to propose marriage.
The couple, who has been identified as Angela Nikolau and Ivan Beerkus, were seen holding a pro-peace banner at the very top of the spire. It appeared to read, "When the power of love beats the love of power the world knows peace."
The quote is frequently attributed to guitarist Jimi Hendrix, but was actually spoken by 19th-century British politician William Gladstone.
It was not immediately clear how the two daredevils got into position to free climb the metal structure that services the spire, broadcast antenna and red anti-collision beacon atop the building.
After spending some time at the top, the couple started climbing down a short time later.
Then, Beerkus proposed to Nikolau, pulling out a ring. After saying, 'Yes,' Nikolau admired her new engagement ring and wore it as she climbed down.
Police officers who climbed up the spire met the two and placed them into custody just before 1 p.m.
The building spire is 1,454 feet above the ground.
Police said the banner has been recovered. The Empire State Building's rules prohibit masks and costumes.
Nikolau and Beerkus are known for their daredevil climbs around the world. In fact, they were profiled in the 2024 documentary "Skywalkers: A Love Story," currently available on Nexflix.
