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Cops are investigating whether the death of a young man in Ireland is linked to internet craze 'Neknomination' - the second death this weekend to be associated with the social media drinking game.

The body of Jonny Byrne, 19, was recovered from the River Barrow in Co Carlow this morning, the Irish Mirror reports.

It's believed Jonny, from Leighlinbridge, had been playing the game before jumping into the river last night.

The news comes after the death of Dublin DJ Ross Cummins, 22, which was also linked to the social media drinking game.

Ross, 22, was found unconscious in a house in Dublin city centre in the early hours of yesterday morning.

The DJ was taken to hospital but was pronounced dead shortly afterwards.

Last night Jonny's brother Patrick posted a statement on his Facebook page asking people to stop taking part in the deadly drinking game.

Carlow GAA has also paid tribute to the young man - a hurling player - describing him as a "warrior on the pitch."

It added that he was "a rock in defence and gave 100 per cent on the pitch every time.

“A kind soul well liked throughout Carlow especially in hurling, he was a great hurler and footballer, a gentleman and an even greater friend and we are heartbroken”.

A spokesman for Alcohol Action Ireland last night warned people to be aware of the dangers.

He said: “While some may see this as a game, the consequences of drinking large volumes of alcohol in a short period of time can have very real consequences for those taking part.

“We would call on people to look after their health and well-being by not participating in this ‘game’ and to protect their friends from the serious risks associated with it by not nominating them to take part.”