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Empire State Climbers Accused of Breaking Security Door to Get to Spire
The New York Times • • nation
Key Points:
- Two individuals, Angela Nikolau and Ivan Beerkus, illegally climbed the Empire State Building's needle after trespassing overnight and accessing restricted areas.
- During the climb, the couple unfurled a banner with a message about love and got engaged, attracting news helicopter coverage before being arrested.
- They were arraigned on multiple charges, including burglary and reckless endangerment, with prosecutors noting Beerkus wanted to create a special engagement moment.
- The couple, originally from Russia and residing in East Orange, N.J., have a history of climbing commercial buildings worldwide and were featured in a 2024 documentary about their thrill-seeking romance.
