Ace Frehley, the legendary guitarist of the iconic rock band Kiss, passed away at the age of 74 due to “blunt trauma injuries” sustained from an accidental fall, as confirmed by the Morris County, New Jersey Medical Examiner. The report reveals that Frehley, born Paul Frehley, died last month in Morristown, New Jersey, following complications from the incident at his home. Initially, a representative had mentioned his death was due to a “recent fall,” but specific details about the cause emerged later.
A CT scan following the fall disclosed multiple contusions, bone fractures in the back of his skull, hemorrhages, and a subdural hematoma, which is a form of bleeding in the brain resulting from head injuries. Furthermore, it was noted that Frehley had also suffered a stroke. After the fall, he was placed on life support, and his family ultimately made the difficult decision to remove his ventilator.
Frehley was an integral member of Kiss since its formation in 1973 until 1982 when he left the band reportedly due to substance abuse challenges and artistic disagreements with fellow bandmates Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley. He did reunite with the group for their hugely successful 1996 reunion tour but departed once again in 2002. The original lineup, including Frehley, performed together for the last time during the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony in 2014, with their final show as a complete band taking place in 2018. Frehley was slated to attend the Kennedy Center Honors this year where Kiss was to be celebrated.
Gene Simmons honored Frehley’s legacy following his passing, saying, “No one can touch Ace’s legacy. I know he loved the fans. He told me many times… Ace was the eternal rock soldier. Long may his legacy live on!”
After his time with Kiss, Frehley continued to perform and record as a solo artist. His last performance occurred on September 5 in Providence, Rhode Island. However, shortly thereafter, he was forced to cancel future engagements, including a show in California, due to ongoing medical issues stemming from the fall.
A funeral service for Frehley was conducted on October 23 in the Bronx. His friend, SiriusXM host Eddie Trunk, has announced intentions to organize a tribute show or fan celebration in Frehley’s honor, pending approval from his family. This reflects Frehley’s enduring impact on the rock music scene and the deep admiration held for him by fans and peers alike.