(NEXSTAR) – A New Jersey medical examiner has announced the cause of death of KISS founding member and original lead guitarist Ace Frehley, who died Oct. 16 at the age of 74.

Morris County Deputy Medical Examiner Frederick J. DiCarlo stated that the cause of death was blunt trauma injuries to the head caused by a fall, according to the exam report.

A CT scan of Frehley's head revealed extensive bleeding between the brain and the outer, protective layers of the organ. There was also evidence of a fracture at the base of the skull and a brain bruise, among other findings.

Frehley reportedly fell in his studio in September. In the weeks after the fall, messages on his official social media channels informed fans that he would be cancelling his remaining 2025 tour dates.

The legendary guit

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