Couple arrested after scaling Empire State Building for proposal, unfurling banner

Two individuals were arrested on Wednesday after scaling the antenna of the Empire State Building in New York City, unfurling a banner advocating for love and peace before descending the iconic skyscraper.

The pair, dressed in black and wearing masks, ascended to a narrow ledge near the top of the antenna, which stands 1,454 feet above Manhattan. News helicopter footage captured them embracing, kissing, and posing for photographs while the banner fluttered in the wind. The message on the banner read: “when the power of love beats the love of power the world knows peace.”

Around 12:30 p.m., they began their descent down the antenna's metal lattice. During the climb down, one individual appeared to set up electronic equipment, while the other showed off what seemed to be a ring, suggesting a proposal may have taken place at the summit. Police took both individuals into custody shortly after 1 p.m. No injuries were reported.

Officials have not yet revealed how the pair gained access to the antenna, which is situated far above the public observation decks of the 102-story building. Management for the Empire State Building has not yet responded to requests for comment. This incident is not the first time climbers have scaled parts of the building; actor Jared Leto was previously granted permission to climb to the antenna's base in 2023 for a promotional event.

“

when the power of love beats the love of power the world knows peace.