STATE COLLEGE — A former prosecutor who disappeared six years ago was declared dead Monday.

Centre County District Attorney Ray Gricar disappeared on April 15, 2005, about nine months before he was to retire as the central Pennsylvania county’s top prosecutor. He had taken a day off from work and had told his girlfriend that he was going for a drive. His car later was found abandoned.

Centre County Judge David Grine ruled that Gricar be declared dead, the Centre Daily Times reported. The ruling allows Gricar’s daughter, Lara Gricar, to begin to administer the estate and distribute his assets. Lara Gricar, who had asked for the death declaration, testified by phone that she believes “without a doubt” that her father is dead.

“It’s time for this family to have closure,” said attorney Amos Goodall, who represented Lara Gricar.