Two lovers were arrested after illegally climbing to the top of the Empire State Building’s antenna in New York City, United States, where they displayed a peace banner before staging what appeared to be a marriage proposal.
The pair, both wearing black clothing and face coverings, scaled the antenna on Wednesday without any visible safety harnesses. They stood on a narrow ledge close to the top of the structure, about 443 metres (1,454 feet) above Manhattan.
Helicopter footage captured the couple embracing and appearing to kiss after unfolding a banner bearing the message: “When the power of love beats the love of power, the world knows peace.”
At about 12:30 p.m., they began climbing down the antenna’s metal framework to a larger platform. Once there, the man appeared to arrange an electronic device before going down on one knee. The couple then kissed and hugged again.
The woman was later seen taking several selfies while extending her left hand, indicating she was showing off what appeared to be an engagement ring.
According to Reuters, the apparent couple is from Russia.
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Police arrested both individuals shortly after 1 p.m. after they completed their descent from the skyscraper.
Authorities confirmed that no one was injured during the incident, but the identities of the suspects were not immediately disclosed.
Officials have yet to reveal how the couple gained access to the restricted antenna, which sits far above the building’s public observation decks.
“Two individuals were taken into custody without incident. There are no injuries reported. Charges are pending, and the investigation is still ongoing,” a New York police spokesman told the French AFP news agency.
Built in the early 1930s in the Art Deco architectural style, the Empire State Building held the title of the world’s tallest building until the 1960s.
Visitors hoping to enjoy panoramic views of New York from the building’s main observation deck on the 86th floor are required to purchase tickets costing $44 (roughly €38.6). An additional $35 grants access to the enclosed observation deck on the 102nd floor.
Security at the landmark, like several other major sites across New York City, has remained tighter since the September 11 attacks.
(DW News)
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