Ace Frehley, lead guitarist and founding member of the rock band KISS, was determined to have died from blunt trauma head injuries due to a fall, nearly a month after his
death.
A CT scan confirmed multiple bone fractures to his skull, hemorrhages, contusions, and subdural hematoma, according to a report from the Morris County, New Jersey, medical examiner's office reviewed by The Epoch Times.
The report, obtained on Nov. 10, listed his manner of death as an accident.
The autopsy revealed evidence of a prior fall, noting that Frehley, 74, had bruising on his abdomen, hip, upper thighs, and lower leg area.
The musician
died on Oct. 16 in Morristown, surrounded by loved ones, according to his agent. He had suffered medical complications after a fall at his studio in August.
Prior to his passing, TMZ
reported that Frehley was hospitalized and put on life support as a result of a brain bleed. The outlet stated that he had been placed on a
ventilator after having trouble breathing on his own "for some time."In a statement, family members expressed their sorrow, saying they are "completely devastated and heartbroken" but will cherish his laughter and celebrate the kindness he bestowed on others.
"The magnitude of his passing is of epic proportions, and beyond comprehension. Reflecting on all of his incredible life achievements, Ace’s memory will continue to live on forever!" they wrote.
At the time of his fall, a statement posted to his official social media accounts said he was in good condition despite the injury.
"Ace had a minor fall in his studio, resulting in a trip to the hospital," read the Instagram post. "He is fine, but against his wishes, his doctor insists that he refrain from travel at this time." However, in early October, Frehley
canceled the remainder of his 2025 tour dates, citing "ongoing medical issues."
Formed in 1973, KISS was made up of Frehley, singer-guitarist Paul Stanley, bassist Gene Simmons, and drummer Peter Criss, who were known for their powerful glam rock performances, makeup, and costumes.
With his signature “Spaceman” persona, Frehley, a Bronx, New York, native, was named by Guitar World in the Top 15 of its “100 Greatest Heavy Metal Guitarists of All Time.”
He performed with the band, known for their hits "Rock and Roll All Nite" and "I Was Made for Lovin’ You" until 1982, when he embarked on a solo career. Frehley rejoined KISS in 1996 for a reunion tour, and remained until 2002.
In 2014, Frehley was
inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame alongside his bandmates.
Last year, Frehley achieved chart-topping and commercial success with his eighth solo studio album “10,000 Volts” and had recently been working on his upcoming album “Origins Vol. 3.”
The Associated Press contributed to the report.
