District Attorney Vanishes Under Suspicious Circumstances: Where is Ray Gricar?

*Information is obtained from the Where are they? Podcast and other online sources as cited**

Ray Gricar had an enviable legal career throughout the ’80s and ’90s. But his legal career was second in his life next to his daughter, Lara. Ray was a doting dad and even spent Laura’s younger years as a stay-at-home dad.

Ray grew up in Cleveland, Ohio, and was a big Cleveland sports fan. When his wife took a job at Penn State University, the family moved to Pennsylvania.

In 1985, Ray began his career as a district attorney in Centre County, Pennsylvania.

He took on some of the county’s most serious criminals. However, in 1998 Ray’s decision to not prosecute Jerry Sandusky, one of Penn State’s football coaches, for sexual assault against minors, caused a rift in Ray’s supporters. Many were not happy about that decision.

In 2005, Ray announced that he would not run for re-election that year, and intended to retire. He was looking forward to relaxing, traveling, and visiting his daughter who now lived on the west coast.

On April 15, Ray woke up and spontaneously decided to take the day off. His girlfriend at the time, Patty Fornicola, told him to enjoy the day, and she herself headed to work.