The official cause of death has been confirmed for Ace Frehley, the legendary KISS guitarist and co-founder, who died just weeks ago at the age of 74.
According to the official report, Frehley sustained a skull fracture at the back of his head, along with a subdural hematoma – a pool of blood between the brain and its outer protective layer – and a stroke.
His death has been classified as accidental.
The update follows reports that the musician collapsed in his home studio, striking his head in a frightening fall that triggered the medical crisis, according to TMZ.
Frehley’s family, who were with him when he died in Morristown, New Jersey, confirmed the news in an emotional statement on October 16, writing: ‘We are completely devastated and heartbroken.
‘In his last moments, we were fortunate enough to have been able to surround him with loving, caring, peaceful words, thoughts, prayers and intentions as he left this earth.
‘We cherish all of his finest memories, his laughter, and celebrate his strengths and kindness that he bestowed upon others.’
The statement provided to Variety continued: ‘The magnitude of his passing is of epic proportions, and beyond comprehension. Reflecting on all of his incredible life achievements, Ace’s memory will continue to live on forever!’
His longtime representative Lori Lousararian confirmed to Rolling Stone that Frehley’s health had deteriorated following ‘a recent fall at his home,’ though further details were not immediately disclosed.
Frehley, known to generations of fans as KISS’s Spaceman, helped define the band’s blistering sound and theatrical spirit in the 1970s, leaving behind an indelible mark on rock history.
His distinctive guitar tone and wild stage presence helped propel KISS to global stardom and influenced countless musicians across genres.
In the days leading up to his death, Frehley canceled all remaining tour dates, describing the decision as ‘difficult’ in a heartfelt Instagram post to fans.
Sources close to the guitarist told TMZ that he had been placed on a ventilator for several days, with doctors seeing little improvement before the heartbreaking decision was made to withdraw life support.
The tributes quickly poured in following news of the rocker’s death, including from his bandmates Gene Simmons (who was involved in a major car crash earlier this month) and Paul Stanley.
In a joint statement, the pair wrote: ‘We are devastated by the passing of Ace Frehley. He was an essential and irreplaceable rock soldier during some of the most formative foundational chapters of the band and its history. He is and will always be a part of KISS’s legacy.’
In his own social media post, Simmons shared ‘no one can touch Ace’s legacy.’
‘I know he loved the fans. He told me many times. Sadder still, Ace didn’t live long enough to be honored at the Kennedy Ctr Honors event in Dec. Ace was the eternal rock soldier. Long may his legacy live on!’
Fellow co-founder Peter Criss, added: ‘I’m shocked!!! My friend… I love you!’ alongside a photo of Frehley.
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