• 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 iconic lead guitarist and a founding member of the legendary glam rock band KISS, passed away on October 16 at the age of 74. The Morris County Medical Examiner’s Office in New Jersey confirmed that Frehley died from blunt trauma injuries to the head, a result of an accidental fall. The injuries were severe, including facial fractures, bruising, a skull fracture, a subdural hematoma, and eventually, a stroke. Despite undergoing surgery to alleviate the bleeding in his brain, Frehley did not regain consciousness, and his family made the heart-wrenching decision to remove life support. He died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones in Morristown, New Jersey.

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

The tragic incident followed a fall in his studio earlier in 2025, where a CT scan revealed extensive brain bleeding. This led to his untimely demise, despite his previous optimism about his health and future. Frehley had already canceled his remaining 2025 tour dates, a decision he described as “difficult” to his fans. His resilience and hopefulness were evident in the months leading up to his death, making the loss even more poignant.

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

Ace Frehley’s family expressed profound grief at his passing, describing themselves as “completely devastated and heartbroken.” They cherished their final moments with him, filled with love and peace, and celebrated his vibrant life, infectious laughter, and kindness. The family’s statement reflected both their immeasurable loss and their pride in his extraordinary contributions to music and his lasting legacy.

Tributes from KISS Band Members and Legacy Reflections

Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons, co-founders of KISS, publicly mourned Frehley’s death, honoring him as an “essential and irreplaceable rock soldier” who played a pivotal role in the band’s early success. Despite past internal conflicts, both expressed their heartfelt condolences to his family and fans, emphasizing Frehley’s indelible mark on KISS’s history and the rock genre.

Ace Frehley’s Impact on Rock Music and Character Persona

Known affectionately as “Space Ace,” Frehley was renowned for his electrifying performances, complete with fire, pyrotechnics, and smoke-emitting guitars. His creativity and flair significantly contributed to KISS’s distinctive style and success during the 1970s, delivering hits like “Rock and Roll All Nite.” Frehley’s pioneering stage presence and musical influence helped cement the band’s global fame and enduring legacy 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.​