2 Empire State Building climbers in custody after apparently getting engaged at the top

Two individuals who scaled the Empire State Building’s iconic height without safety gear and unfurled a romantic banner have been taken into custody following a dramatic display of affection atop the skyscraper. The pair, identified as Ivan Kuznetsov and Angelina Nikolau, reportedly proposed to each other during their ascent, sparking both admiration and outrage from passersby and authorities alike. Their actions took place on July 1, 2026, drawing attention not only for the audacity of their stunt but also for the legal consequences that followed.

According to reports, the couple began their climb shortly before noon, navigating the structure’s interior passages without ropes or harnesses. They entered through a hatch located on the 103rd floor, a restricted area typically used for maintenance purposes. This access point allowed them to bypass the publicly accessible 102nd floor, where visitors can enjoy panoramic views. The exact method by which they gained entry to the 103rd floor remains unclear, though witnesses noted that the pair initially appeared unmasked as they ascended. Once at the summit, they unfurled a large black banner bearing the words, “When the power of love beats the love of power the world knows peace,” a phrase often associated with the late musician Jimi Hendrix.

As the couple stood on the observation deck, they were joined by several onlookers, some of whom expressed surprise at their presence. A witness named Julie Morris described how she initially believed the pair had permission to reach the top, despite the security guard’s assertion that no one was allowed beyond the 102nd floor. Meanwhile, another visitor, Martin Mulgrew, questioned the logic of proposing on such a precarious location, remarking, “Why would anyone want to propose on the top of a building?” His daughter, Maeve Mulgrew, added that the couple seemed genuinely in love, noting their emotional embrace and kiss after the proposal.

Law enforcement intervened when the couple descended from the top, prompting a police helicopter to respond to the scene. As they moved down the tower, the man knelt on one knee and presented his partner with a ring, marking the moment as a pivotal one in their relationship. However, their celebration was short-lived. Upon returning to the ground, the pair was apprehended by officers, facing multiple charges including burglary, reckless endangerment, and criminal trespass. Authorities cited the use of unauthorized access points and the lack of safety precautions as contributing factors to their arrests.

The couple, who reside in East Orange, New Jersey, have a documented history of engaging in similar high-profile stunts. Previous incidents included climbing notable structures without protective gear, often accompanied by social media posts that garnered significant online attention. Despite the risks involved, the duo has continued to draw public interest, blending elements of romance and rebellion in their unconventional approach to personal milestones.

As the case unfolds, legal proceedings will likely determine the severity of the charges against the couple. Meanwhile, the incident has sparked discussions about the balance between personal expression and public safety, raising questions about the limits of free speech and the responsibilities of individuals when engaging in acts that pose potential dangers to others. The story of Ivan Kuznetsov and Angelina Nikolau continues to captivate the public imagination, serving as both a cautionary tale and a testament to the enduring power of love.