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“compiled: Elmili TK”
Empire State Building Proposal became the center of global attention on Wednesday after two thrill-seekers scaled the building’s 1,454-foot antenna in a dangerous stunt. Angela Nikolau, 33, and Ivan Kuznetsov, 32, climbed to the top around noon while carrying a banner promoting peace and love. The pair remained at the summit for nearly 30 minutes. Soon after, they began descending toward the observation deck while shocked crowds gathered below. Witnesses quickly noticed the unusual activity, and many started recording the incident. As a result, police officers moved in immediately.
Proposal unfolds above New York skyline
As the couple reached the lower platform near the antenna base, Kuznetsov suddenly dropped to one knee and proposed to Nikolau. She accepted while wearing a black cat mask and later displayed the engagement ring on Instagram. However, the Empire State Building Proposal quickly shifted from romance to legal trouble. Authorities detained both climbers as soon as they returned to ground level. Police later charged them with felony burglary, reckless endangerment, criminal mischief, trespassing, and possession of burglary tools.
Meanwhile, investigators believe the couple bypassed a secured mesh gate installed on the 102nd floor. Officials had added that barrier after previous trespassing attempts near the building’s spire.
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Witnesses react with shock and confusion
Eyewitnesses initially feared a terror-related incident. Ahmed Hassan, a nearby vendor, said crowds suddenly stopped and stared upward. Many people reportedly bought food nearby simply to remain and watch the unfolding drama. Another witness, Jasmine Chen, admitted she first feared the worst. Later, after learning it was a marriage proposal, she described the act as wildly romantic. Others reacted differently. Some questioned why dangerous public stunts now define expressions of love. Consequently, the bizarre Empire State Building Proposal created intense public debate online and across New York.
Police investigate social media climbers
Body camera footage later showed NYPD officers confronting the pair high above Manhattan. Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch praised officers from the Emergency Services Unit for safely handling the dangerous situation. The couple already has an online reputation for extreme climbing content. Nikolau regularly shares rooftop adventures worldwide and describes herself as an artist exploring fear and freedom. Both previously appeared in the Netflix documentary Skywalkers A Love Story, released in 2024.
Now authorities continue reviewing how the pair breached newly upgraded building security systems. The case also raises broader concerns about dangerous viral stunts inside major tourist landmarks.
