Yea I tried pushing the hatch closed and working both the key and handel pressing the electric unlock button inside etc. Where I am really kicking myself is that the first time I tried to close it, it didn't latch and I looked at it clicked the hook open and closed with a pen and the offending handel which even though it was staying lifted, seemed like it was still releasing, then closed it. It would be soooo much easier to repair if the hatch where still open. Just goes to show you what happens when you get in a hurry. worst part is I am in the process of moving an not having the hatch usable sucks. At least I had already removed the seats. Unfortunatly the rear shelf is in and is pretty solid with the hatch closed.
I am wondering if the dealer will let me look at an uninstaled latch to see how an emergency release through the hole might work
Stan