Two climbers arrested after reaching Empire State Building antenna
Two individuals who scaled the antenna of New York's Empire State Building were taken into custody by police, with charges pending as the investigation continues.
New York police said two people who climbed to the top of the Empire State Building's antenna on Wednesday afternoon were arrested without incident and are now in custody. The individuals, identified as influencer Angela Nikolau and her partner Ivan Beerkus, posted photos and video of the ascent on social media, including an image of Nikolau's engagement ring against the city skyline. The pair also displayed a banner reading, “When the power of love beats the love of power the world knows peace.”
Authorities have not disclosed how the climbers accessed the 1,454-foot structure, which houses broadcast equipment for most of the city’s television and radio stations. Former FBI Deputy Director Andrew McCabe told CNN that the stunt placed city officials, police and the building’s owners in a difficult position, adding that prosecutors will pursue appropriate charges to deter similar attempts.
The investigation remains ongoing, and further details are expected as the case proceeds.
