Abstract: A hook mechanism for use with a lifting crane or other lifting apparatus which provides for a safety latch mechanism is disclosed. The hook provides a latching mechanism to prevent accidental or unintentional release of a load, lifting cable or line being held by the hook. The latch mechanism secures the throat of the hook and remains engaged to prevent disengagement of a line being lifted until such release is desired. The latch mechanism is remotely releasable by use of a manually operated release line or in a preferred embodiment a remotely controlled wireless release mechanism. The safety latch element of the hook contains a spring mechanism to provide for automatic opening upon release of the latch by the remote means.