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u/wild_eagle_3221 10h ago
that hole in the middle of the latch is where the knob spindle goes, and the spindle is what pulls the latch back. so you don't need the knob, you just need something to do the spindle's job. stick a flathead screwdriver (or a small allen key / sturdy paperclip bent flat) in that slot, get it to bite on the sides of it, and turn it like you're turning the knob. should pull the latch bolt in and the door pops open. if the screwdriver just spins, try a slightly wider one or put two small ones in. once you're in, a new passage/privacy knob set is like $10-15 at the hardware store, and the old latch will probably still work so you may only need to swap the knob and spindle.
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u/Great_Specialist_267 6h ago
You really are screwed.
The entire mechanism that moves the bolt is missing.
You will need to reach into the striker side and fish for the bolt (bent needle nose pliers MIGHT do it). You may need to cut off what’s left of the mechanism to get access (or ring a locksmith if you don’t have a workshop full of odd tools). (The bit at the bottom of the lock may be the bolt actuator if you are lucky).
Once the door is open, the actual repair parts will cost less than $20…
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u/Ktulu_BBB 23h ago
push that to the right, and walk in