Additional Coverage:
- Two people taken into custody after climbing to the top of Empire State Building with massive banner (foxnews.com)
Two individuals wearing masks scaled the Empire State Building around noon on Wednesday, unfurling a banner that read, “when the power of love beats the love of power, the world knows peace.”
The New York City Police Department’s Emergency Services Unit responded promptly, after which the pair appeared to remove the banner and descend from the antenna to a lower platform. At that point, one person produced an engagement ring from a backpack, knelt down, and proposed.
Both were later taken into custody, with charges still pending, according to NYPD officials. No injuries were reported during the incident, though it remains unclear how the individuals managed to climb the iconic skyscraper.
Currently, about 40 officers are stationed in front of the building, while others manage traffic in the area. The entrance on Fifth Avenue between West 33rd and 34th Streets has been blocked off as pedestrians gathered around the scene.
Standing at 1,454 feet including its spire and antenna, the Empire State Building ranks as the fourth-tallest building in New York City, sixth in the U.S., and 43rd worldwide.
As of now, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has not issued a public statement regarding the stunt, and his office has not responded to requests for comment.
This story is ongoing; further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.