A couple known for their daring climbs was arraigned in New York after scaling the Empire State Building’s antenna. Angela Nikolau and Ivan Beerkus, featured in the Netflix documentary “Skywalkers: A Love Story,” climbed to propose amidst a display promoting love and peace. This act led to charges of felony reckless endangerment, burglary, and other counts.
They reportedly reached the top, 1,454 feet above midtown Manhattan, and unfurled a banner stating, “When the power of love beats the love of power the world knows peace.” This spectacle was captured by news helicopters. Following the display, Beerkus proposed to Nikolau on a lower ledge.
The event posed significant risk to both the couple and emergency responders. Police had to wait for the antenna to power down before officers climbed to intercept them. The climb reached 1,250 feet, adding danger to the mission.
Authorities found a broken lock on the restricted-access 104th floor that leads to the antenna. The 102nd floor remains the highest public access point, implying further security breaches.
The couple, using the names Angelina Nikolau and Ivan Kuznetsov, were released without bail. Their attorney, Jason Krinsky, noted that they plan to review evidence before deciding on legal actions.
This unauthorized climb is not unique. While Jared Leto previously climbed as part of a promotional event, most such ascents, including this one, lacked formal permission. The Empire State Building management labeled the climb unauthorized and has remained silent about their interactions with security personnel during the event.