2015 Ford Escape: How do I turn off the interior lights while the hatch is open and the car is running?

Manually move the gate latch lever to the closed position. It *must* be returned to the open position before closing lift gate! IF there is a *factory override* - it'll be listed in the owner's manual for your 2015 Ford Escape.

Manual switch present for interior lights on the roof console? Many cars have a 3 way switch: Always on, Always off, on with doors open...