Karl Cochran’s sudden death shocked fans and the rock music scene. Here is what caused his death and who received his wealth after he passed away.
Karl Cochran’s Career Highlights
Ultimate Classic Rock reports that Cochran started his professional music career at age fourteen. He began teaching guitar, bass, voice, and music theory in 1984. His teaching career ran parallel to his performing career.
According to his official website, Cochran worked with rock’s most legendary names, from Joe Lynn Turner of Deep Purple and Rainbow to members of Black Sabbath and Queen.
Cochran’s musical career is a result of decades of collaboration with rock’s elite. He made his most notable contribution through his work with KISS by co-writing ‘Into the Void’ for their 1998 reunion album ‘Psycho Circus.’ His resume includes collaborations with names like Felix Pappalardi from Cream and Bob Daisley of Black Sabbath, Rainbow, and Ozzy Osbourne.
Cochran also worked with his band, Voodooland. The group released a self-titled EP in 2000. They followed this with their full-length album ‘Give Me Air’ in 2004. He was also a member of the New Jersey cover band Far Cry since 1995, and Ace Frehley’s solo project.
Karl Cochran Cause of Death
As reported by Guitar Player, Cochran’s life ended on February 19 in Bridgewater, New Jersey. He was riding as a passenger in a car driven by his 90-year-old mother when an accident took place during a reverse maneuver. The car collided with a tree. The impact ejected Cochran from the vehicle. He was airlifted to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital. Despite medical efforts, he succumbed to his injuries at the age of 61.
Paul Stanley wrote at the time of Cochran’s death, “Our dear friend Karl Cochran was killed in a car accident on Feb. 19th. Karl was a vocalist and guitarist extraordinaire who suffered a massive stroke but never stopped fighting to make his way back. He was loved by our fans worldwide through his appearances worldwide and was a constant inspiration as our guest on our KISS Kruises.”
Capital Public Radio reports that Cochran also suffered a stroke in 2014. The stroke affected his mobility and verbal skills. Cochran refused to step away from music. He shifted his focus to production and engineering work.
Who Inherited Karl Cochran’s Wealth?
Cochran left behind a financial legacy of $5-6 million. According to Chubenko Funeral Home, his surviving family includes his fiancée, Ger Fasano, and his mother, Arna Cochran. His father, Fred Cochran, preceded him in death in 2015. As it appears, his estate now belongs to his mother and fiancée.
