Music legend Ace Frehley died last week aged 74 and now a toxicology report is set to determine the KISS guitarist’s cause of death
The death of music legend Ace Frehley is under investigation after a toxicology report was ordered. The KISS star died last week at the age of 74.
The guitarist had been on life support for weeks after suffering a fall in a studio. He had been placed on life support after a brain bleed. His family made the devastating call to take him off the ventilator.
However, now a representative for the Morris County Medical Examiner’s office has revealed an autopsy was not performed on the musician. And a toxicology screening is underway, along with an “external body examination”.
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While no cause of death has been given yet, the medical examiner’s office said that a cause of death will be finalised in the coming weeks, according to TMZ.
Music star Ace was one of the four founding members of KISS. He formed the iconic group along with Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, and Peter Criss.
The popular band was known for hit tunes such as I Was Made for Lovin’ You, and Rock and Roll All Nite. Ace exited the band in 1982 after an internal conflict and issues with substance abuse.
He rejoined his former bandmates for a reunion tour in 1996 but once again departed in 2002. After his death, the musician’s family released a statement saying they were “devastated and heartbroken” after the star’s passing.
They said: “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!”
Before his death, he had tried to reassure fans he was okay following his fall. Despite the cancellation of his tour, a statement posted on his official Instagram page on September 25 tried to reassure fans, saying: “He is fine, but against his wishes, his doctor insists that he refrain from travel at this time.”
However, a week later, another statement was released: “Due to some ongoing medical issues, Ace has made the difficult decision to cancel the remainder of his 2025 dates.”
Following Ace’s death, bandmate Gene expressed his devastation at his passing. Issuing a joint statement with Paul, he told The Hollywood Reporter: “I am 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. My thoughts are with Jeanette, Monique and all those who loved him, including our fans around the world.”
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