94 Olds trunk lock broken - how to open

My dad's 94 Olds Cutlass sedan has a problem...The key won't open the truck. I removed the rear seats and the long flat pc of metal (not sure what it is called) that twists open the latch has pulled loose. It was sticking out 3-4 " and on these cars getting into the trunk from the rear seat is impossible so am trying to figure out what we can hit, pull on etc. to release the trunk. I don't see much that we can do but may be missing something. I can find no electric release on this old car.

On my old 95 2door, release was in the glove box.

I wish it were that easy....Don't have a release button with this car. I must figure out a way to unlatch from the trunk somehow.....

You can drill through the lock. Its easy because it is only pot metal and the only thing you are hurting is the lock. If the "tailpiece" is already pulled out once you have the hole drilled its as simple as turning a flatblade screwdriver in the slot the tailpiece was in. Purchase a new lock from the auto parts store and if you are picky you can take it to a locksmith and have it keyed to your door key once again.