The man, thought to be about 18 years old, was barefoot as he climbed in windy conditions with no safety harness. He had been on the property earlier but was told to leave by the tower crew who were painting the structure owned by KSDK television .
When the crew left for the day, the young man returned and started climbing the 1100-foot tall tower. He was spotted by a member of the tower crew, who used their equipment to hoist himself up to their work area and intercept the climber. He physically restrained the climber, called the fire department, and waited for them to be raised up, secure the climber and remove him in a basket.
The Maplewood Fire Department said later they have a tower rescue team that trains for this very type of incident.
It was not yet released whether the climber would face any charges in the incident.
On the Net:
Full details and interview on KSDK website
