KISS guitarist Ace Frehley's cause of death has been determined as blunt force head trauma resulting from a fall, according to a medical examiner's report. The musician died on October 16 at the age of 73.
The report, obtained by TMZ, revealed that Frehley suffered a skull fracture, a subdural haematoma, and a stroke. He was placed on life support and underwent an unsuccessful medical procedure before his family decided to withdraw life-sustaining treatment.
Frehley had been hospitalised after a fall at his recording studio, which led to a brain bleed. A statement on his Instagram on September 25 described it as a 'minor fall,' but his doctor insisted he refrain from travel. On October 6, his tour was cancelled due to ongoing medical issues.
His family confirmed his death on October 16, expressing devastation and heartbreak. They noted that he was surrounded by loving words and thoughts in his final moments. Frehley was laid to rest in New York City, with fellow KISS founding members Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, and Peter Criss attending the memorial.
