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Two dead as 'neknominate' drinking craze takes off in Ireland

Two young men have reportedly died after taking part in the 'neknominate' drinking craze that is thought to have originated in Perth.

They body of 19-year-old Jonny Byrne was recovered from the River Barrow, in Leighlinbridge, Ireland.

His brother, Patrick, posted a message on Facebook linking his death with the 'neknomination' drinking craze, suggesting he died after jumping in the river as part of the stunt.

Patrick also urged people to stop taking part in the activity after his brother's death.


In Dublin, a 22-year-old DJ died after reportedly taking part in the drinking game.

“The young man was found unconscious in a house on Macken Street in the early hours of the morning," a security source said.

“It is believed his body was discovered was just a few minutes’ walk from his family home. Emergency services were called at around 5.30am and gardai were alerted.”

Ross Cummins, a DJ who played around local nightclubs, with his girlfriend, Niamh Murphy. Photo: Supplied.
Ross Cummins, a DJ who played around local nightclubs, with his girlfriend, Niamh Murphy. Photo: Supplied.

His girlfriend, Niamh posted an emotional tribute on Facebook.

“Today was the most devastating day I have ever had," the post read.

"Words can’t describe how broken and empty I feel.

"I lost not only the love of my life today, but my best friend.

"Usually I think it is wrong to be writing on Facebook but I am so overwhelmed by the lovely messages and support I have witnessed in the last few hours that I had to respond.

“Ross was not only one in a million, he was my one in a million, and I really don’t know how to be a person without him."