Matthew Lawrence Perna, 37, ‘dies by suicide’ before Capitol riot sentencing as family say charges ‘killed his spirit’

A MAN charged with crimes related to the January 6 Capitol riot reportedly died by suicide, according to an obituary that says he died of a "broken heart."

Matthew Lawrence Perna, 37, reportedly died on February 25, the of his indictment for crimes connected to the January 6 protest.

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Perna, from Pennsylvania, reportedly filmed inside the Capitol building and later posted the video to social media.

In December, Perna pleaded guilty to one felony charge of obstruction of Congress and three misdemeanors, reported.

Along with obstruction of an official proceeding and aiding and abetting, he was charged with entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly and disruptive conduct on a restricted building or grounds, and disorderly conduct in a Capitol building.

In an obituary, Perna's death is attributed to "a broken heart."

"His country and the justice system killed his spirit and his zest for life," the tribute reads.

"He attended the rally on January 6, 2021, to peacefully stand up for his beliefs. After learning that the FBI was looking for him, he immediately turned himself in."

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In the obituary, the author states Perna entered the Capitol through an already-open door, "ushered in by police," and insists he did not break, touch, or steal anything.

"The constant delays in hearings and postponements dragged out for over a year," the obituary continues.

"Because of this, Matt’s heart broke and his spirit died and many people are responsible for the pain he endured."

The Mercer County Coroner’s Office told WKBN 27 that the man's death is under investigation.

Perna was reportedly scheduled for sentencing on April 1 in Washington, DC.

The charges could have resulted in up to 20 years in prison and heavy fees.

The felony carried an up to $250,000 fine, and the misdemeanor charges included additional penalties.