A latch release device for a vehicle door is provided which enables the release of the latched state of a latch mechanism that accompanies actuation of an electric actuator in response to the normal operation of an operating member for latch release, and the release of the latched state by a mechanical latch release operating force in response to emergency operation of the operating member for latch release, and includes a child lock mechanism attached to the latch mechanism, wherein the child lock mechanism is arranged so as to switch between linking and unlinking the actuating member for latch release and a mechanical operating force input member to which a mechanical latch release operating force is transmitted from the operating member for latch release, and latch release intention detection means is disposed on the latch mechanism so as to detect actuation of the actuating member for latch release.