Two arrested after scaling Empire State Building in 'marriage proposal'
Two individuals were arrested on Wednesday after scaling the Empire State Building in New York City, where they appeared to stage an elaborate marriage proposal at the iconic landmark's summit.
The pair, wearing masks and sleeveless black outfits, managed to reach the very top of the building's antenna spire by midday. There they unfurled a large banner bearing the message "When the power of love beats the love of power the world knows peace." The building stands at 1,454 feet in total height, with the observation decks far below their position.
The NYPD responded to the scene, deploying both a helicopter and drone to monitor the stunt. By 12:40pm, the two individuals began their descent. After reaching a lower platform on the structure, the man dropped to one knee and proposed to the woman. She removed her mask as the pair embraced and kissed.
According to an NYPD statement, the two unknown individuals were taken into custody without incident at approximately 12:00pm on Wednesday, July 1, 2026. Charges are pending, though reports suggest they include burglary, criminal trespass, and reckless endangerment. The investigation remains ongoing.
The stunt provoked mixed reactions on social media. Some praised the gesture. "A powerful message displayed at one of the world's most iconic landmarks," one observer commented. "A reminder that many people continue to call for peace and unity across the world." Another described it as "a daring climb to share that timeless message of love over power."
However, others were critical. "I don't really get the point of the ski masks," one person fumed. "It's not like they're not going to be arrested and have their mugshots taken afterward." Another observer suggested the climbers deserved a year in prison, arguing that "actions have consequences and not always the ones that were thought about."
The banner message is reported to be a slightly modified version of a quote attributed to guitarist Jimi Hendrix.