Ace Frehley’s Cause of Death Released

Rock fans around the world are mourning the loss of Ace Frehley, the founding guitarist of KISS, whose cause of death has now been confirmed. According to a report from the Morris County Medical Examiner’s Office, obtained by Fox News Digital, Frehley died from blunt trauma injuries to the head following a fall. His death has been officially ruled an accident. He was 74 years old.

Frehley passed away on October 16, shortly after the incident, his agent confirmed. Just weeks earlier, in September, he had shared news of his fall with fans and subsequently canceled his remaining 2025 tour dates on October 6.

His family released a heartfelt statement to Fox News Digital, saying,

“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 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!”

The Man Behind the Makeup

As one of the original architects of KISS’s iconic sound and style, Frehley helped define an era of arena rock excess and theatrical spectacle. Known for his electrifying guitar work and larger-than-life stage persona, he helped shape the band’s explosive performances—complete with fire, smoke, and signature black-and-white makeup.

The original KISS lineup—Ace Frehley, Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, and Peter Criss—changed the face of rock in the 1970s. Frehley’s death marks the first loss among the band’s founding members, a somber milestone for the “KISS Army” of fans who’ve followed them for decades.

In a joint statement, the band’s surviving founders said,

“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. Our thoughts are with Jeanette, Monique and all those who loved him, including our fans around the world.”

A Lasting Legacy

During the height of KISS’s fame in the mid-1970s, the band sold tens of millions of albums, turned their trademark look into a global brand, and became one of the most marketable acts in music history. Their hit ballad “Beth” became their biggest U.S. success, reaching No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1976.

While KISS will forever be remembered for its fire-breathing theatrics and anthems like “Rock and Roll All Nite” and “I Was Made for Lovin’ You,” Ace Frehley’s influence extended far beyond the stage. His distinctive solos, cosmic persona, and fearless individuality inspired generations of guitarists and fans alike.

Frehley’s passing leaves behind not just a legacy of riffs and pyrotechnics—but a spirit of creativity and rebellion that continues to echo through rock history.