NEW YORK (Diya TV) — A couple known for climbing some of the world’s tallest buildings now faces criminal charges after scaling the top of New York City’s Empire State Building and getting engaged high above the skyline.

Russian nationals Angela Nikolau, 33, and Ivan Beerkus, 32, climbed the iconic skyscraper’s 200-foot antenna on Wednesday. During the stunt, they displayed a large banner that read, “When the power of love beats the love of power, the world knows peace.” Moments later, Beerkus got down on one knee and appeared to propose. Nikolau accepted, and the pair kissed before starting their descent.

Police later took both into custody after they reached the ground. Authorities charged them with felony burglary, reckless endangerment, criminal mischief, possession of burglar’s tools, criminal tampering, criminal trespass,s and disorderly conduct.

The dramatic event quickly drew attention across social media and local news. Videos captured the couple standing near the building’s needle nearly 1,500 feet above New York City. An NBC New York helicopter also recorded the proposal as it circled the skyscraper.

The New York Police Department confirmed that officers arrested the pair after the incident. Body camera footage later showed an officer climbing a caged ladder to reach them. The officer calmly asked the couple to remain where they were because they could not stay on the structure.

Officials said the couple remained at the top of the Empire State Building for at least 10 minutes before climbing down. Fortunately, neither person suffered injuries during the climb or arrest.

Authorities continue to investigate how the couple reached the restricted section of the building. Preliminary information suggests they entered through a hatch on the building’s 103rd floor, which maintenance crews use to access water tower equipment. The 103rd floor remains closed to the public, while visitors can access the observation deck on the 102nd floor. However, investigators have not explained how the pair moved between those levels.

The Empire State Building stated after the incident. Building officials said the unauthorized climb never placed tenants, visitors, or observation deck guests in danger. They also praised the coordinated response by the New York Police Department, which brought the situation to a safe conclusion.

The building’s spokesperson also offered a lighthearted reminder. The statement noted that the Empire State Building Observation Deck already provides a safe and memorable location for marriage proposals without requiring visitors to climb restricted areas.

Meanwhile, videos from people on nearby streets showed crowds watching the unusual scene unfold. Air traffic control audio also captured the surprise surrounding the incident. During the exchange, one person remarked that someone had climbed to the very top of the Empire State Building. Another voice joked that the weather seemed too hot for such an adventure.

Nikolau and Beerkus have built large followings online by completing high-risk climbs on famous buildings around the world. Their work often features breathtaking views from rooftops, towers, and skyscrapers. In addition, the couple became the focus of the 2024 documentary Skywalkers: A Love Story, which explored both their relationship and their passion for extreme urban climbing.

Even so, the latest climb has renewed concerns about security at one of America’s most recognized landmarks. The Empire State Building attracts millions of visitors every year. Therefore, investigators will likely review how the pair accessed an area that remains off-limits to the public.

The incident also comes during a busy period for New York City. The city continues to welcome large crowds for FIFA Club World Cup matches and the upcoming Fourth of July holiday. At the same time, residents and tourists have dealt with high summer temperatures across the region.

For now, the couple faces multiple criminal charges as the investigation continues.