A New Jersey medical examiner is investigating the death of legendary KISS guitarist Ace Frehley, with toxicology tests currently underway to finalize the official cause of death. The update comes nearly a week after the iconic “Spaceman” passed away at the age of 74.
According to a report from TMZ, a representative for the Morris County Medical Examiner’s office confirmed that while an autopsy was not performed, a toxicology screening and an external body examination are being conducted. The results, and the official cause of death, are expected to be finalized in the coming weeks.
Frehley passed away on Thursday, October 16, after being hospitalized and placed on life support. Reports indicated he suffered a brain bleed following a fall at his home studio several weeks prior. His family confirmed they made the difficult decision to remove him from the ventilator.
In their initial statement confirming his passing, Frehley‘s family expressed their profound grief.
“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,” the statement read. “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!”
As a founding member of KISS, Ace Frehley‘s unique guitar style and iconic stage persona were integral to the band’s global success in the 1970s. He played on their first nine albums before departing in 1982, later returning for the band’s massively successful reunion tour in 1996. The results of the toxicology tests will provide the final, official details surrounding the passing of one of rock and roll’s most influential and beloved guitarists.
