Russian Daredevil Couple Who Climbed Empire State Building Released Under Supervision
A pair of Russian daredevils who scaled the Empire State Building’s 1,454-foot antenna in a stunt that doubled as a marriage proposal was released from custody under court-ordered supervision on July 2, prosecutors said.
Ivan Beerkus, 32, and Angela Nikolau, 33, both social media influencers from Russia, climbed to the top of the iconic Manhattan skyscraper’s spire on July 1, unfurling a black banner that read: “When the power of love beats the love of power the world knows peace.” The dramatic feat, which appeared to culminate in a rooftop engagement, drew widespread attention — and a swift arrest.
Police said the couple was taken into custody around 12:30 p.m. after descending the building. They now face multiple felony charges, including reckless endangerment, criminal mischief, burglary, and BASE jumping, according to the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office. Prosecutors noted that the charges are not bail-eligible, and the couple is due back in court on Aug. 24.
The incident forced police to shut down nearby streets and briefly disable the building’s antenna, which emits high-frequency radio signals that can be harmful to humans, before officers could safely approach the pair. Body camera footage released by police shows officers scrambling up the structure and telling the couple, “You can’t be up here.”
Court filings reveal that Beerkus and Nikolau had trespassed overnight in the Empire State Building before making their ascent. Investigators found a broken lock on a security door leading to the antenna on the 104th floor — a lock that cost about $2,000 to replace. The criminal complaint described the climb as requiring the pair to bypass multiple secured areas.
The couple, who have built a following online by documenting extreme stunts — often involving breaking and entering and scaling skyscrapers — were seen kissing and embracing after leaving court on July 2. Their attorney did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
The case has raised fresh questions about security protocols at one of New York City’s most famous landmarks, as well as the legal boundaries for influencers seeking viral content. Legal experts note that while such stunts draw clicks, they carry serious criminal consequences that can include prison time and deportation for non-citizens.
Contributing: Natalie Neysa Alund, Ralphie Aversa and Michael Loria
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Couple that climbed Empire State Building is released after court