Two people were taken into police custody Wednesday after evading security and climbing to the top of the Empire State Building’s spire, unfurling a banner nearly 1,450 feet above Manhattan before being escorted down by officers.
The incident occurred around noon and prompted a response from the New York Police Department’s Emergency Service Unit. Authorities said the investigation is ongoing as officials work to determine how the climbers accessed a restricted area of the landmark, which is not open to the public.
Incident
According to law enforcement officials, the two individuals scaled the building’s needle and unfurled a banner that read, “When the power of love beats the love of power the world knows peace.” During the stunt, the pair appeared to stage a proposal at the top of the spire.
Body camera video released by police shows officers speaking with the climbers high above the city before escorting them down safely. No injuries were reported.
Arrests
The climbers were identified by a law enforcement official as Angela Nikolau, 33, and Ivan Kuznetsov, 32, both residents of New Jersey. Officials said they were taken into custody without incident and were still being processed at a local precinct later Wednesday.
According to the Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Public Information, both face multiple charges, including burglary, reckless endangerment, criminal mischief, criminal tampering and criminal trespass. Under New York law, burglary includes entering or remaining in a building with the intent to commit a crime.
Security Questions
Investigators said they are still trying to determine how the pair gained access to the restricted area. Two Emergency Service Unit officers climbed several ladders to reach the top of the spire and bring the climbers down.
Former FBI Deputy Director Andrew McCabe said the incident puts pressure on city officials and building operators to pursue charges to deter copycat attempts.
Authorities emphasized that the climb posed serious safety risks, both to the individuals involved and to first responders.
Public Attention
The incident unfolded during a busy period for New York City, with heightened security following recent large public events and celebrations. Air traffic control audio captured an exchange between an NYPD helicopter pilot and a LaGuardia controller discussing the climbers at the top of the spire.
Pedestrians in Midtown gathered to watch as police handled the situation. Some said the stunt reflected a broader pattern of increasingly extreme acts used to draw public attention.
Background
Nikolau has posted photos and videos of similar high-rise climbs on social media, including images from the Empire State Building incident. Her social media accounts also promote a 2024 Netflix documentary titled “Skywalkers: A Love Story,” which features her and Kuznetsov as stunt performers. Netflix declined to comment on the incident.
The Empire State Building’s antenna transmits broadcast signals for most of New York’s local television and radio stations. Despite extensive security, the landmark has long attracted unauthorized climbers. Similar stunts have occurred at other major structures worldwide, often resulting in arrests.
Officials said the case remains under investigation, and additional details may be released as charges proceed.
FAQs
Who climbed the Empire State Building?
Angela Nikolau and Ivan Kuznetsov, according to police.
When did the incident occur?
Around noon on Wednesday.
Were there any injuries?
No injuries were reported.
What charges do they face?
Charges include burglary and reckless endangerment.
How did they access the spire?
Officials say that is still under investigation.
