Abstract: A locking device for a vehicle door comprising a latch mechanism having a rotary catch which can be arrested by a pawl for trapping a closing element when the vehicle door is closed. The pawl is displaceable via actuation of an electromotive drive unit for the purposes of releasing the rotary catch. A connector for a mechanical opening actuation mechanism of the vehicle door, such as an outside door handle, is provided. The locking device has a coupling element which is actuated via the drive unit to couple the connector to the pawl in the event of a crash being detected by a crash sensor.