My 96 E320 was fine the night before, went out in the morning and not working...apparently the safety switch seems to be working, any idea what could be the problem?

It could be the ignition switch is not sending power to the starter solenoid. Check the small wire on the starter for power when the key is in the "Start" position. If there is power there, the starter motor might have short brushes and it needs replacement. Try hitting the starter with a blunt object to break the brushes free. Don't beat it up - it doesn't take much. Have you had any problems with the engine starting before? Have you checked the fuses?