Obituaries
PA Capitol Rioter Dies From 'Broken Heart,' Family Says
Matthew Perna, who pleaded guilty to participating in the Capitol insurrection, has died at 37.
SHARPSVILLE, PA — A Western Pennsylvania man awaiting sentencing for participating in the Capitol riot last year died "of a broken heart," according to his obituary.
Matthew Perna, 37, of Mercer County, died on Feb. 25.
"His community (which he loved), his country and the justice system killed his spirit and his zest for life," the obituary stated.
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Perna pleaded guilty in November to four counts related to the insurrection, including a felony count of obstruction of an official proceedings. He was scheduled to be sentenced in April.
According to his obituary, Perna went to Washington last January "to peacefully stand up for his beliefs.
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"The constant delays in hearings, and postponements dragged out for over a year. Because of this, Matt’s heart broke and his spirit died, and many people are responsible for the pain he endured."
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