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KISS founding member Ace Frehley's cause of death revealed

Published Nov 11, 2025 3:11 pm

The cause of death of Ace Frehley, the legendary guitarist who co-founded rock band KISS, has been revealed.

The 74-year-old musician died due to blunt head trauma injuries, TMZ reported, citing the Morris County Medical Examiner. It was ruled an accident.

According to PEOPLE Magazine, Frehley's family confirmed his death on Oct. 16 following a minor fall in his Morristown, New Jersey home.

TMZ reported that the rocker was put on life support due to bleeding after the injury, forcing him to cancel upcoming tour dates.

KISS, who became known for their theatrical performances and signature white face paint, is behind 70s hits like Rock and Roll All Nite and I Was Made for Lovin’ You.

Frehley was its founding member, alongside frontman Gene Simmons, rhythm guitarist Paul Stanley, and drummer Peter Criss.

He left the band in 1982 amid substance misuse and as creative differences surfaced.

He continued to work as a solo artist, and founded the band Frehley's Comet, producing a number of hit albums. He reunited with KISS in the mid-1990s for a six-year stint. (with reports from AFP)