The Morris County Medical Examiner has officially determined that Ace Frehley, the original guitarist and co-founder of the iconic rock band Kiss, died from blunt force trauma after a fall at his home in Morristown, New Jersey. His death, which occurred on October 16, has been ruled an accident.
Frehley’s family shared the heartbreaking news last month, expressing their grief in a statement to Entertainment Weekly:
“We are completely devastated and heartbroken. In his final moments, we were blessed to surround him with love, peace, and prayers as he left this earth.”
They continued, honoring his legacy:
“We cherish his laughter, his kindness, and the joy he brought to others. The impact of his passing is beyond comprehension, but his memory and accomplishments will live on forever.”
Frehley is survived by his wife, Jeanette, his daughter, Monique, his brother, Charles, and several nieces and nephews.
Just a month before his passing, Frehley’s team had informed fans that he’d experienced a “minor fall” in the studio, forcing him to postpone several tour dates across the Midwest. Despite being advised to rest by doctors, he had hoped to resume touring and continue work on his upcoming album, Origins Vol. 3. Eventually, however, his 2025 tour was fully canceled due to ongoing health issues.
Known to millions as the “Spaceman” or “Space Ace”, Frehley co-founded Kiss in 1973 alongside Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, and Peter Criss. His distinctive makeup, showmanship, and electrifying guitar style helped define the band’s signature image and sound.
Frehley contributed classic tracks such as “Cold Gin,” “Parasite,” and “Getaway,” and provided vocals on songs like “Save Your Love” and “Hard Times.” After leaving Kiss in 1982, he formed Frehley’s Comet and launched a successful solo career, beginning with his platinum-selling debut album in 1978. In 2014, his Space Invader album reached the Billboard Top 10, marking him as the only Kiss member to achieve that milestone as a solo artist.
He briefly rejoined Kiss for their 1998 reunion album Psycho Circus before parting ways again in 2002. In 2014, Frehley and the original lineup were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, cementing his place as one of rock’s most influential guitarists.
