Look for GM to have a HUGE lawsuit over this. I know, I know but it makes no difference. It's just a matter of deep pockets.
What year was this car? Since 1996, our family has had 4 GM (Saturn) cars and at least three of them (2000, 2002, and 2005) had both the lockout feature AND the "pull up to raise, push down to lower" feature.
Can't remember if the '96 had either of those features, though I'm pretty sure it had the "pull up" feature.
Nevertheless, what an awful thing to have happen. I feel nothing but sorrow for this poor family.
Regards,