Broken tool box latch

[kenj39]

Not sure if I posted in the right place ?.
I have a 1971 Chevy c-20 With the factory tool box under the passinger side bed.
The key part turns like normal however the latch is broken . it pulls about 1/4 open then snapped .

should i cut the latch off and try to trip the latch with a flat head ?

Do I need to cut thrugh the bottom and trip it from the inside ?

please help, Thank you.