The recent passing of Ace Frehley, the iconic co-founder of KISS, has left fans and family in deep mourning. The New Jersey medical examiner is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding his death, which occurred on October 16, 2023, in Morristown, New Jersey.
Toxicology Tests Underway to Confirm Cause of Death for Ace Frehley
Frehley, born as Paul Daniel Frehley, died surrounded by his family after a series of health complications. This tragic event comes nearly two weeks after he suffered a significant fall at his home, which resulted in a brain bleed and subsequent life support measures.
In response to his death, the Morris County Medical Examiner’s office announced that an autopsy was not performed. Instead, they confirmed that a toxicology screening is currently underway, alongside an external examination of Frehley’s body. The medical examiner’s office stated that a finalized cause of death will be determined in the upcoming weeks.
Legacy and Career Highlights
Ace Frehley was a seminal figure in rock music, co-founding KISS alongside Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, and Peter Criss in 1973 in New York City. He played a crucial role in the band’s rise to fame, contributing to their first nine albums. Frehley briefly left the band in 1982 but made a return in 1996 for a reunion album titled “Psycho Circus.” In 2014, the original lineup was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
- Key Milestones:
- Induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: 2014
- First album with KISS: 1974
- Last solo project: “10,000 Volts,” February 2024
- Health Issues:
- Frequent falls leading to hospitalization.
- Upcoming tour dates canceled due to medical concerns.
Throughout the years, Frehley’s relationship with bandmates Stanley and Simmons was marked by turmoil. He accused them of diminishing his contributions, which he believed contributed to his struggles with substance abuse. However, he credited his daughter Monique for inspiring him to attain sobriety in 2006.
Personal Life
Frehley was married to Jeanette Trerotola in 1978, and despite their legal separation, they remained married until his death. He is survived by his daughter Monique, brother Charles, sister Nancy Salvner, and various nieces and nephews, all of whom are left to cherish his memory.
In this difficult time, Frehley’s family expressed their sorrow, stating, “We are completely devastated and heartbroken.” They emphasized the importance of the memories shared with him and the impact he made on those around him.
