2003 Ford Escape that will not start... stick in park.

I had this problem on a different vehicle...(not sure it applies in this case but) ...the cause ...my engine had seized. Having a troubled piston removed, the cylinder wall honed, and a new piston/rings installed fixed the problem. I had the vehicle for many years after. Hopefully, in your case, it is not as troublesome. Try looking into a faulty starter or starter solenoid...check battery cables for damage or loose connection....also..if applicable, check the battery fluid level. Check the gear selector cable, a malfunctioned cable or misaligned cable could make it impossible to change gears. I have heard of transmissions going bad and stuck in the park position. ..so that is also something to check. (hopefully, it is not the case).