Former KISS guitarist Ace Frehley has tragically died at 74 years old. The following statement from his family confirmed what we all feared:

“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!”

When Ace’s Antelope Valley Fair cancelation was first announced, it was revealed that Frehley had had “a minor fall in his studio, resulting in a trip to the hospital”. It seems though that his situation never improved and he has been on a ventilator during his final days.

Frehley first left KISS in 1982. He rejoined in 1996 and parted ways with the band once again in 2002 after the conclusion of KISS’s first “farewell tour.”