A dramatic marriage proposal atop the iconic Empire State Building has ended in legal trouble after a couple allegedly climbed the building’s restricted antenna without authorization and were charged with multiple felony offences.
The couple, known publicly as Angela Nikolau and Ivan Beerkus, appeared in a New York court on Thursday after prosecutors accused them of reckless endangerment, burglary and other offences linked to the high-risk climb.
Authorities said the incident created significant safety concerns for both the climbers and emergency responders.
Unauthorized Climb to the Building’s Antenna
According to prosecutors, the pair accessed the restricted 104th floor of the Empire State Building before climbing the broadcast antenna, reaching approximately 1,454 feet (443 metres) above Midtown Manhattan.
During the climb, they unfurled a black banner carrying the message:
“When the power of love beats the love of power, the world knows peace.”
After displaying the banner, the couple descended to a lower platform where Beerkus proposed to Nikolau. Images shared on social media later showed the engagement and a ring overlooking the New York skyline.
Police Describe Major Safety Risk
Investigators said police officers waited until the antenna was powered down before members of the Emergency Services Unit climbed approximately 1,250 feet to intercept the pair safely.
Court documents allege officers discovered a broken lock on a secured door leading to the restricted area, which is normally accessible only through key-card entry.
Officials said the operation exposed emergency personnel to unnecessary danger while responding to the incident.
Who Are Angela Nikolau and Ivan Beerkus?
The couple gained international attention through the 2024 Netflix documentary “Skywalkers: A Love Story,” which followed their passion for “rooftopping”—the practice of climbing tall buildings and structures, often without permission, to capture photographs and videos.
Their social media accounts feature numerous high-altitude climbs from cities around the world.
Released Without Bail
Following their arraignment, the couple was released without bail under New York’s bail laws.
Outside the courthouse, Beerkus briefly addressed reporters, saying:
“We believe in love.”
Their attorney said the defence will review the evidence before deciding its legal strategy.
Empire State Building Management Responds
Management of the Empire State Building described the climb as unauthorized but did not comment on how the pair gained access to restricted sections of the landmark.
The building screens visitors and enforces security measures that prohibit several types of items from entering the premises.
