Abstract: A release mechanism for a vehicle escape sash employs a latch mechanism of novel construction, with parts configured as keeper, hinged latch member, and sash bar. The keeper has a keeper flange that projects upward from a web of the keeper, and has a generally cylindrical undercut recess at its juncture with the web. The recess defines a latch seat. The latch member has a sash plate mounted to the window sash rail and a latch plate hingedly connected to the sash plate. A depending flange on the latch plate has a cylindrical head at its free end that fits into the keeper recess and makes continuous rolling contact therewith when the keeper and latch member are latched together. The sash bar is mounted onto the latch plate and extends inwardly over the latch member, the keeper, and the sash subframe. The sash bar both serves as a cover and as a release handle.