A latch device includes a shell having an actuating lever, a linking member and a sliding member mounted thereto. The actuating lever has a free end formed into two cantilever arms with an open area defined therebetween for mounting a handling member and an elastic element; and a pivotal end pivotally connected to the shell, allowing the actuating lever to move, rotate or swing in a reciprocating motion. The linking member has a first end pivotally connected to a middle area of the actuating lever; and a second end assembled to the shell. When the handling member is pulled or pushed, the actuating lever is movable between a closed and an opened position allowing the linking member and the sliding member to move at the same time. The latch device with the above structure has relatively large open angle and long handling area to facilitate smooth or convenient operation thereof.

Apparatuses, methods, and systems for providing a locking apparatus for resisting movement of an openable element are described. The locking apparatus includes a mounting bracket, a central member, a stop plate, and a housing. The mounting bracket is couplable to the openable element. The central member is couplable to the mounting bracket and includes a body, an actuator, a lifting member coupled to the body and configured to be raise or lowered. The stop plate may be coupled to the frame of the openable element and aligned with at least a portion of the lifting member for restricting movement of the openable element when the lifting member is raised. The housing may be coupled to the mounting bracket and is generally used for aesthetic purposes. The locking apparatus may be one of a plurality of locking apparatuses grouped together for singular or group control, such as, for active shooter situations.