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NEW YORK — Two people wearing black were taken into custody after they climbed to the very top of the Empire State Building, unfurled a banner and appeared to propose marriage.
The couple, who has been identified as Angela Nikolau and Ivan Beerkus, were seen holding a pro-peace banner at the very top of the spire. It appeared to read, “When the power of love beats the love of power the world knows peace.”
The quote is frequently attributed to guitarist Jimi Hendrix, but was actually spoken by 19th-century British politician William Gladstone.
It was not immediately clear how the two daredevils got into position to free climb the metal structure that services the spire, broadcast antenna and red anti-collision beacon atop the building.
After spending some time at the top, the couple started climbing down a short time later.
Then, the male climber appeared to propose to the female climber, pulling out a ring. The female climber admired her new engagement ring and then wore it as she climbed down.
It happened as the couple came down from the 1,454 feet spire of Empire State Building.
Police officers who climbed up the spire met the two and placed them into custody just before 1 p.m.
The building spire is 1,454 feet above the ground.
Police said the banner has been recovered. The Empire State Building’s rules prohibit masks and costumes.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
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