The music world is mourning the loss of a true rock icon after an autopsy confirmed the cause of death for Kiss founding member Ace Frehley.
Medical Examiner's Report Reveals Tragic Accident
The Morris County medical examiner's office has determined that Ace Frehley's death was accidental, resulting from blunt force injuries to the head sustained during a fall. The 74-year-old guitarist, born Paul Daniel Frehley, suffered this fall several weeks before his passing.
According to the official report, Frehley sustained significant facial fractures near his eyes and left ear. The examination also revealed bruising on his left abdomen and thigh area, along with his right hip and upper thigh.
A Peaceful Passing and Musical Legacy
Frehley died peacefully on 16 October 2018, surrounded by his family in Morristown, New Jersey. His agent confirmed the circumstances of his final moments.
The guitarist's family announced his death last month, expressing they were "completely devastated and heartbroken" by the loss they found almost incomprehensible. Their statement celebrated his incredible life achievements, noting his memory would "live on forever."
Frehley inspired generations of musicians through his work on Kiss's first nine albums and his flamboyant stage persona known as Space Ace or the Spaceman. His innovative use of pyrotechnics, making his guitars glow and shoot fireworks, became legendary in rock history.
Kiss's Enduring Impact and Frehley's Legacy
Kiss achieved massive popularity in the mid-1970s, selling tens of millions of albums with hits like "Rock and Roll All Nite" and "I Was Made for Lovin' You." The original lineup featured Frehley alongside singer-guitarist Paul Stanley, bassist Gene Simmons, and drummer Peter Criss.
Frehley remains the first among the four founding members to pass away. The New York-born Rock & Roll Hall of Famer grew up in a musical family, began playing guitar at age 13, and even worked as a roadie for Jimi Hendrix at 18 before helping form one of rock's most theatrical bands.
Kiss became known for their comic book-style characters and spectacular live shows featuring fire, fake blood, body armor, platform boots, wigs, and their signature black and white face paint.
