KISS Guitarist Ace Frehley’s Cause of Death Revealed
Legendary KISS guitarist Ace Frehley passed away on October 16, 2025. His family made the heartbreaking choice to turn off his ventilator. Following this, the cause of death has been revealed by sources including TMZ.
Ace Frehley’s Cause of Death
According to a report from the Morris County Medical Examiner in New Jersey, Ace Frehley died from blunt trauma to the head after a fall. Specifically, he suffered several severe injuries:
- Fracture to the back of the skull
- Subdural hematoma—a blood collection between the brain’s protective outer layer and the brain
- Stroke
The medical examiner ruled his death as an accident. Ace was 74 years old at the time of his passing.
Background on Ace Frehley
Ace Frehley was a founding member of the iconic rock band KISS. He joined forces with Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, and Peter Criss, playing guitar for the band from 1973 to 1982. His departure from KISS was marked by struggles with substance abuse and creative differences.
Before his tragic fall, Ace was in good spirits. In March 2025, he spoke about a comeback after recovering from an arm injury. He shared his optimism in an interview with The Aquarian, mentioning a psychic’s prediction of living to be a hundred.
Ace Frehley is remembered as the first original member of KISS to pass away. Fans and fellow musicians are mourning his loss. His impact on rock music and culture will not be forgotten.
