The official cause of death for Ace Frehley, the legendary co-founder and lead guitarist of the rock band KISS, has been confirmed. The rock icon, famously known as the Spaceman, passed away in October 2025 at the age of 74.
The Tragic Accident and Medical Crisis
According to the official report, Frehley's death has been classified as accidental. The musician sustained a severe skull fracture at the back of his head, which led to a subdural hematoma – a serious condition where blood collects between the brain and its outer layer. This traumatic injury subsequently triggered a stroke.
The medical crisis began when Frehley collapsed in his home studio, suffering a frightening fall where he struck his head. This incident, first reported by TMZ, set off the chain of events that led to his passing. His longtime representative, Lori Lousararian, confirmed to Rolling Stone that the guitarist's health had deteriorated following 'a recent fall at his home'.
Final Days and Heartbreaking Decision
In the days leading up to his death, Frehley made the difficult decision to cancel all his remaining tour dates, sharing a heartfelt message with his fans on Instagram. Sources revealed that his condition was grave; he was placed on a ventilator for several days. After doctors saw little improvement, the heartbreaking decision was made to withdraw life support.
Frehley died in Morristown, New Jersey, on October 16, 2025, with his family by his side. They released an emotional statement, writing: 'We are completely devastated and heartbroken. In his last moments, we were fortunate enough to have been able to surround him with loving, caring, peaceful words, thoughts, prayers and intentions as he left this earth.'
A Legacy That Will Live On
The tributes for the rock legend poured in from across the music world. His former KISS bandmates Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley issued a joint statement, describing Frehley as 'an essential and irreplaceable rock soldier' during the band's formative years. Simmons added on social media, 'no one can touch Ace’s legacy'.
Fellow co-founder Peter Criss expressed his shock, simply posting: 'I’m shocked!!! My friend… I love you!'
As the Spaceman, Ace Frehley was instrumental in defining KISS's blistering sound and theatrical spirit in the 1970s. His distinctive guitar tone and wild stage presence helped propel the band to global stardom and left an indelible mark on rock history. His memory, as his family stated, will continue to live on forever.
