Rock legend Gene Simmons was hospitalized after his SUV careened across multiple lanes of traffic and crashed into a parked car on Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, California. The 76-year-old KISS bassist and vocalist told responding deputies he had passed out or fainted behind the wheel of his Lincoln Navigator before the collision occurred around 1 p.m. on October 7, 2025.
The Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department responded to the crash in the 25000 block of Pacific Coast Highway after receiving a 911 call from a witness. Deputies found Simmons speaking with first responders at the scene following the single-vehicle accident that involved his SUV striking a parked car.
Simmons was transported to a local hospital as a precautionary measure but was released the same day. His wife, Shannon Tweed, confirmed to NBC4 Los Angeles that the rock star was recovering at home and provided insight into potential factors that may have contributed to the incident.
According to Tweed, doctors had recently changed her husband’s medications, and she noted he needed to drink more water, something he typically avoids. The 68-year-old explained that dehydration combined with the new medication could have contributed to Simmons losing consciousness while driving.
Two days after the accident, Simmons addressed his fans directly through social media, expressing gratitude for their concern. Simmons wrote on X, “Thanks, everybody, for the kind wishes. I’m completely fine.” He characterized the incident as a slight fender bender and acknowledged his driving abilities, stating that such accidents happen especially to those who are horrible drivers, describing himself as fitting that category.
The crash occurred on the scenic oceanside stretch of Pacific Coast Highway, a route known for its winding curves and heavy traffic. Sheriff’s department officials indicated the driver may have suffered a medical emergency before the collision, though they did not initially identify Simmons by name in their official reports.
A representative for KISS told media outlets that Simmons was already back to work following the incident. The rock icon also left a voicemail message for NBC4 Investigates, confirming he was doing fine and recovering well at home.
The accident comes at a significant time for the legendary rock band. KISS is scheduled to perform together for the first time since retiring from touring in 2023. The group will reunite in Las Vegas from November 14-16 for the KISS Army Storms Vegas event, celebrating 50 years as a band.
The upcoming Las Vegas performance will feature an unmasked Simmons alongside bandmate Paul Stanley, Tommy Thayer, and other special guests. This marks a notable return for the group, which concluded their farewell tour last year after five decades of theatrical rock performances.
KISS is also set to receive recognition at the Kennedy Center Honors this year under President Donald Trump’s leadership of the organization. Stanley previously expressed the band’s honor at receiving this prestigious recognition, stating that KISS has embodied the American ideal that all things are possible through hard work.
The car accident involving Simmons occurred during a challenging period for KISS alumni. Former guitarist and co-founder Ace Frehley recently canceled the remaining dates of his 2025 tour due to ongoing medical issues following a fall in his studio that required hospitalization. The 74-year-old musician’s health setback prevented him from completing scheduled performances.
Simmons, known by his stage persona “The Demon,” has been a driving force behind KISS since the band’s formation in the early 1970s. The group achieved massive commercial success with their elaborate stage shows featuring pyrotechnics, costumes, and theatrical makeup, selling millions of records worldwide during their peak years.
No other injuries were reported in the crash, and authorities indicated the investigation was routine for this type of incident. The Pacific Coast Highway location where the accident occurred is a frequently traveled route connecting Malibu to other coastal communities in Los Angeles County.
Fans who expressed concern on social media received reassurance from Simmons’ direct communication about his condition. His quick recovery and return to work schedule demonstrated the relatively minor nature of the incident, despite the initial concern generated by reports of his hospitalization.