Death of Ace Frehley under investigation
An investigation into the death of KISS guitarist Ace Frehley has been launched.
The veteran musician died in Morristown, New Jersey on October 16 at the age of 74. A statement shared by Frehley’s family confirmed the guitarist – also known as Spaceman – died “peacefully surrounded by family” following “a recent fall at his home”.
Medical examiners in New Jersey confirmed they would be opening an investigation into the death. Frehley’s cause of death will be finalised in the next few weeks pending a toxicology report, according to a Morris County Medical Examiner who spoke to TMZ.
The medical examiner added that, while no autopsy was done, external examinations and a toxicology report are currently being carried out.
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A statement from Frehley’s family, released at the time of his death, reads: “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.
“We cherish all of his finest memories, his laughter, and celebrate his strengths and kindness that he bestowed upon 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!”
Tributes were also made in an official statement from Kiss. A post to the band’s social media hailed Frehley as a crucial part of the group’s history.
Kiss’s tribute read: “We are devastated by the passing of Ace Frehley. He was an essential and irreplaceable rock soldier during some of the most formative foundational chapters of the band and its history.
“He is and will always be a part of Kiss’s legacy. Our thoughts are with Jeanette, Monique and all those who loved him, including our fans around the world.”
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Frehley would found Kiss in 1973 alongside singer Paul Stanley, bassist Gene Simmons and drummer Peter Criss. He left the band a decade later to pursue a solo career but rejoined the group in 1996. Frehley would leave again in 2002, and did not rejoin the band for their 2022 farewell tour.
Further tributes were made by Rage Against the Machine guitarist Tom Morello and progressive metal band Opeth. Ex-Kiss member Bruce Kulick also hailed Frehley as an “iconic guitar player” who had an “undeniable role in the creation and success of Kiss”.
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The legendary guitarist, who once said he was an “anomaly” of a musician [via The Guardian], would help Kiss write hits like I Was Made for Lovin’ You, Detroit Rock City, and Love Gun. Frehley would also achieve success as a solo artist. He released his final album, 10,000 Volts, in 2024. It peaked at 72 on the US Billboard 200 chart.
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Source: www.guitar-bass.net
