Couple arrested after climbing Empire State Building
Two people are facing charges after climbing the spire of the Empire State Building in a dangerous stunt that prompted a police response in Manhattan.
(CNN)- Two people are facing charges after climbing the spire of the Empire State Building in a dangerous stunt that prompted a police response in Manhattan.
Police body camera video captured officers confronting the pair after they made their way into a restricted area and climbed to the top of the building’s spire on Wednesday.
Air traffic control audio recorded a police helicopter pilot reporting that two people had climbed the spire and were waving a banner.
The pair unfurled a banner that read, “When the power of love beats the love of power the world knows peace.”
Two NYPD officers climbed multiple ladders to reach the climbers before escorting them safely back down. Police took both individuals into custody without incident.
They are charged with multiple offenses, including reckless endangerment and criminal trespass.
Investigators are working to determine how the pair gained access to the restricted area, which is not open to the public. Afterward, workers were seen inspecting the Empire State Building’s spire.
