How KISS Guitarist Ace Frehley Dead from Head Injury Trauma

• Ace Frehley, founding guitarist of KISS, died from blunt trauma to the head caused by a fall, ruled accidental.
• His injuries included skull fracture, subdural hematoma, stroke, and extensive facial fractures.
• Frehley passed peacefully on October 16, 2025, surrounded by family in New Jersey.
• The family expressed deep heartbreak and celebrated his life and legacy.
• Bandmates Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons acknowledged his crucial role in KISS history and mourned his passing.

Ace Frehley, the original lead guitarist and founding member of the glam rock band KISS, died on October 16 at age 74. According to the Morris County Medical Examiner’s Office in New Jersey, his cause of death was blunt trauma injuries to the head sustained from a fall, which was officially ruled as accidental. The injuries included facial fractures near his eyes and left ear, bruising on his left abdomen, thigh, right hip, and upper thigh, along with a skull fracture at the back of his head, a subdural hematoma, and a stroke that developed after the fall. Despite undergoing surgery to evacuate the hematoma, the medical intervention was unsuccessful, and Frehley remained on life support before his family chose to remove it after there was minimal improvement in his condition. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by family in Morristown, New Jersey.​

The Former KISS Rocker Died of Blunt Trauma Injuries to His Head Due to a Fall

Frehley’s death followed a fall he suffered in his studio earlier in 2025. The extent of his injuries was severe, as indicated by a CT scan revealing extensive bleeding between his brain and its protective layers. This clinical picture explains the grave neurological consequences that led to his eventual passing. Prior to the fall, Frehley had canceled all of his remaining tour dates in 2025, describing the cancellations as “difficult” in messages to fans. Despite his fighting spirit and optimism in the months before his death, including remarks about his expected longevity shared in interviews, the injuries tragically ended his life.​

Frehley’s Family Announced His October 16 Death in a Heartbreaking Statement

The family of Ace Frehley expressed their deep sorrow following his passing. They described being “completely devastated and heartbroken” and cherished their final moments with him filled with loving and peaceful words. Their statement reflected immense grief but also celebrated Frehley’s vibrant life, infectious laughter, kindness, and his extraordinary contributions to music and those around him. They acknowledged the “epic proportions” of the loss and affirmed that his memory and legacy will endure forever.​

Tributes from KISS Band Members and Legacy Reflections

Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons, co-founders and bandmates of KISS, publicly mourned Frehley’s death, recognizing him as an “essential and irreplaceable rock soldier” in the band’s formative years. They highlighted his integral role in their iconic glam rock era and the foundational chapters of KISS. Both expressed their condolences to Frehley’s family and fans worldwide, emphasizing that despite internal band feuds over the years, Ace Frehley’s place in KISS history is permanent and significant.​

Ace Frehley’s Impact on Rock Music and Character Persona

Known as “Space Ace” for his signature persona, Frehley captivated audiences with electrifying performances that combined fire, pyrotechnics, and smoke-emitting guitars. His creative flair contributed significantly to KISS’s distinctive style and success during the 1970s, which included multiple hit albums and memorable songs like “Rock and Roll All Nite.” His pioneering stage act and musical influence helped to shape the band’s global fame and lasting presence in rock music.​

Medical Challenges Leading Up to Frehley’s Death

Months before his passing, Frehley faced ongoing health problems from his fall. Medical reports detailed severe brain trauma, including subdural hematoma and stroke, which required emergency intervention. He was kept on a ventilator with little improvement before the family made the difficult choice to end life support. These updates were shared with fans through social media and official channels, with Frehley himself expressing regret over canceling tour dates but prioritizing his health.​

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