Cause of death revealed for Kiss icon Ace Frehley

Legendary guitarist Ace Frehley, co-founder of the rock band Kiss, died on October 16, 2025, at the age of 74. On November 10, the medical examiner in Morris County, New Jersey, officially ruled his death an accident and detailed the cause: blunt-trauma injuries to the head resulting from a fall, according to People and The Los Angeles Times.

According to the report, Frehley had suffered a fall in his home studio in late September, which led to a skull fracture, a subdural hematoma (bleeding near the brain), and a subsequent stroke. He was placed on life support, and his family made the decision to withdraw treatment, resulting in his passing, according to Consequence.

Ace’s family released a statement saying:  they were “completely devastated and heartbroken” but would cherish his “finest memories, his laughter, and celebrate his strengths and kindness that he bestowed upon others.”

Bio:  Paul Daniel “Ace” Frehley was born on April 27, 1951, in the Bronx, New York. He adopted the moniker “Ace” because friends said he “always came through” in high-school, according to TV Insider.  He was a founding member of Kiss in 1973 and served as the band’s original lead guitarist and occasional vocalist. He created the “Spaceman” (or “Space Ace”) persona—silver face-paint, outer-space costume, pyrotechnic guitars—and his energetic playing and design helped define the band’s theatrical rock style.

Frehley remained with Kiss until 1982, during which time he co-wrote or contributed to many of the band’s classics including “Strutter,” “Shock Me,” “Cold Gin,” and “Rocket Ride.” After his departure he formed his own band (Frehley’s Comet) and pursued a solo career. He re-joined Kiss for a reunion from 1996 to 2002.

In 2014, Kiss (including Frehley as a former member) were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

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Kiss:  Formed in New York City in 1973 by Paul Stanley (vocals/guitar), Gene Simmons (bass/vocals), Peter Criss (drums) and Ace Frehley (lead guitar), Kiss quickly became known for their larger-than-life stage shows—heavy makeup, elaborate costumes, fire, blood, rockets, and giant platforms.   Over the years line-ups shifted, but Stanley and Simmons remained core members.

Frehley is the first of the four original Kiss members to die, marking a significant moment for the band’s legacy.

In response to his passing, Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons issued a joint statement calling Frehley “an essential and irreplaceable rock soldier during some of the most formative foundational chapters of the band and its history.”

Peter Criss, the original drummer, added: “Ace influenced and touched the hearts of millions of people.”

Frehley is survived by his wife, Jeanette Trerotola, his daughter Monique, and extended family. A private memorial service was held, attended by his former bandmates and close family. For more on the tragic and untimely passing of Ace Frehley, see the video below.

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Posted by Richard Webster, Ace News Today
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