A man climbed a 200-foot radio tower in California, carrying a sign reading “Free Billie Eilish.” According to the police, the man is an “adventurer” who has climbed other towers in the past. Authorities were able to bring him down safely after a 10-hour standoff, during which he livestreamed his climb on social media.
Billie Eilish, a Grammy Award-winning singer, has not commented on the incident. It is unclear why the man was advocating for her release.
The incident prompted a response from the tower’s owner, American Tower Corporation, who emphasized the danger of climbing towers and the importance of following safety protocols. Climbing towers without permission is illegal, and offenders can face fines and imprisonment.
This is not the first time someone has climbed a tower to advocate for a cause. In 2016, a protester climbed Trump Tower in New York City, demanding to speak with then-candidate Donald Trump. In 2018, a man climbed a crane in Los Angeles and unfurled a banner protesting against President Trump’s immigration policies.
Incidents like this highlight the need for heightened security measures around public infrastructure. While these stunts may seem like harmless acts of protest, they put both the climbers and first responders in danger. It is important for individuals to find legal and safe ways to voice their concerns and advocate for their beliefs.
