A couple from the United States has been arrested after allegedly climbing the iconic Empire State Building in New York to capture a dramatic marriage proposal on video.

The pair reportedly scaled the 443.2-metre skyscraper without authorization before filming the proposal at the top. To put the incredible height into perspective, the Empire State Building is roughly equivalent to stacking Ghana’s tallest building, the Villagio Towers, about five times on top of one another.

Authorities said the couple’s actions violated safety and security regulations, leading to their arrest shortly after the stunt. While the proposal itself ended in a “yes,” officials stressed that illegally accessing restricted areas of skyscrapers poses serious risks to both the climbers and emergency responders.

The incident has sparked widespread reactions on social media, with many describing the proposal as both breathtaking and reckless. While some users praised the couple’s bold display of love, others criticized the dangerous stunt, arguing that no romantic moment is worth risking lives or breaking the law.

The Empire State Building remains one of New York City’s most famous landmarks, attracting millions of visitors each year. However, authorities continue to warn that unauthorized climbing of the building is a criminal offence and can result in serious legal consequences.