Bizarre internet craze 'planking' claims its first victim after man plunges from balcony to his death

This is thought to be the first time someone has actually died from the growing craze in which people lie face down in unusual place before taking pictures and uploading them onto the internet.

It is thought Beale was on his way home after a night out with friends when he decided to try the high-risk move.

Deputy Police Commissioner Ross Barnett confirmed reports that Beale 'may have fallen while attempting a planking episode'.

Officers were told by witnesses that he had been preparing to lie on a balcony rail when he fell to his death. 'He has tragically lost his footing and fallen to the ground below,' said Mr Barnett.

The incident, in Brisbane, Australia follows the arrest of a 20-year-old man who was found planking on the roof of a police car, also in Queensland.

Daring: Participants taking part in the craze bravely lie face down in a tree

Fun: The craze is seen as harmless by some but police in Australia are getting increasingly concerned as people become more competitive

Furious officers arrested the man and issued a warning that the craze could cause serious injury or harm as people taking part became more and more competitive.

Participants have been photographed lying on railway lines, in the middle of the road, on walls, in trees and in hotel foyers.