Two individuals managed to reach the summit of the Empire State Building’s antenna, displaying a banner emphasizing “the power of love” around midday on Wednesday. They embraced, took selfies, and subsequently faced arrest.

Despite wearing masks and black clothing, the two appeared to lack safety tethers. They balanced on the slender ledge, even planting a kiss on top of the antenna, which stands 1,454 feet (443 meters) above midtown Manhattan. The banner, reading “when the power of love beats the love of power the world knows peace,” fluttered in the breeze.

At approximately 12:30 p.m., they began to descend. The pair navigated the metal latticework to reach a wider ledge. One person set up a piece of electronic gear and knelt. They kissed again, exchanged hugs, and one snapped selfies with a raised left hand as if checking a ring.

Onlookers watched in awe from below. Jonathan Roman, visiting from Glasgow with his 15-year-old son, commented on the experience. Their plan to visit the observation platform was disrupted due to the activity at the antenna. Roman remarked on the unexpected thrill of the spectacle.

Building workers questioned how the duo bypassed security in a building known for visitor checks, prohibiting items like large packages, sports gear, costumes, and masks. “I just can’t believe they made it through security,” said Jessica Kaplan, an employee in the building.

Police detained the climbers around 1 p.m. No one was harmed, though the climbers’ identities remain unknown. The method used to access the high antenna section is yet unclear. Earlier events have seen thrill-seekers climb the building, often without permission, except for actor Jared Leto’s sanctioned climb to the antenna’s base in 2023 for a tour promotion.