The American rock band Kiss announced the passing of one of its former members, guitarist Karl Cochran, who died after being involved in a car accident. The news was shared through the band's social media, mourning the loss of Cochran, who had participated several times in the Kiss Kruises, an iconic event for fans.
"Our dear friend Karl Cochran passed away in a car accident on February 19 (...). Our deepest condolences to Geri and his family," expressed the band that has participated in the Hell and Heaven music festival.
The Bridgewater Township Police Department reported that the accident in which the musician lost his life occurred around 7:20 AM on February 19. The vehicle in which Cochran was traveling, driven by a woman identified as Arma Cochran, crashed into a tree while reversing, causing the musician to be ejected from the car.
Despite receiving medical attention at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, Cochran did not survive the severe injuries sustained in the accident. Doctors were unable to save his life due to the severity of his wounds.
After the tragic news, members of Kiss bid farewell to Karl Cochran, including Bruce Kulick, the band's guitarist who has performed in Mexico. Kulick remembered Cochran as "a fantastic musician" and highlighted his kindness and passion for life, stating that his smile touched everyone who knew him.
Kiss also honored Cochran's memory, recognizing him as an inspiration for fans who saw him on the KISS Kruises. Despite having suffered a stroke in the past, Cochran fought to regain his health, maintaining his spirit, love, and humanity, according to Kulick.
Both the band and the guitarist expressed their condolences to the family and fiancée of Karl Cochran, Ger Fasano, during this time of grief.