New York arrests Netflix-featured climbers atop Empire State Building
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New York City police arrested two Russian climbers, Ivan Beerkus (legally Ivan Kuznetsov) and Angela Nikolau, on Wednesday after they illegally scaled the spire of the Empire State Building in Midtown Manhattan. The pair, previously featured in a 2024 Netflix documentary, bypassed security to reach a narrow platform near the top of the 1,454-foot landmark. There they unfurled a large banner bearing a peace message, filmed a marriage proposal, and posted images of the engagement and ring on social media. The unauthorized ascent prompted a rapid response by the NYPD Emergency Service Unit, which safely retrieved and detained the climbers.
Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.
Timeline of Events
- 2024 Netflix documentary features Russian daredevils
- Wednesday afternoon climbers scale Empire State spire
- Wednesday afternoon security protocols reportedly bypassed
- Wednesday afternoon banner unfurled with peace message
- Wednesday afternoon Kuznetsov proposes marriage atop spire
- Shortly afterward engagement images posted on social media
- Shortly afterward NYPD Emergency Service Unit responds
- Later body camera footage released by police commissioner
Why This Matters to You
This incident highlights potential security gaps in iconic landmarks. If you're planning a visit, be aware of possible disruptions due to such stunts. It's also a reminder to think twice before sharing or endorsing risky, illegal activities on social media.
The Bottom Line
Two climbers bypassed security and risked their lives for a stunt atop the Empire State Building. While their message was of peace, their actions were illegal and dangerous. Worth forwarding if you know someone who loves urban exploration - as a cautionary tale.
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