If possible, open up the dead PC and remove the drive. Install in a working PC; or externally connect it to a PC with a kit like that discussed here. You can then use the normal apps on the working PC to data-wipe the old drive.
If that’s not possible, your best bet is to destroy the drive.
One effective homebrew method is to drill several large holes right through the entire drive, top to bottom. That renders the drive useless for all normal purposes; and makes the data effectively unrecoverable to casual snoops.
If you need more data security, soak the perforated drive overnight in soapy salt water (use a little soap, but lots of salt). That will make the data unrecoverable to all but the most determined snoops.
If need still more data security then you literally have to shred the drive into metal confetti.
That sounds weird, but it’s actually a common commercial service: Search on drive shredding services to find secure drive-disposal/shredding options in your area.
(Credit: IT Liquidators [CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons )
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Melt it. Can’t read the data if it’s liquid. Wouldn’t even have to go that far. Steel looses it’s magnetic properties just hotter than a bright cherry red.
100% true… but perhaps beyond the scope of things an ordinary end user can safely do. 😉