Key stuck in ignition..., Please help.... Options

[mitch1911]

I have finally got my 97 ready to run with a new radiator and condenser, and when I connected the battery back up and went to start it, I got nothing. After a few attempts, it turned over and ran fine, but when I turned it off, the key would not come out of the ignition. After looking through other posts, I couldn't seem to find an answers. Some say it is the factory alarm, others say it is a grounding issue. The little red light stays lit with the key in the ignition. I am afraid by leaving the key in the "ON" position, this will just drain my battery. Any ideas are appreciated on where to start looking for issues. Thanks.

[mitch1911]

Since the key does come out with the battery disconnected, it almost seems like something in the shifter is causing the issue. I will try the steering wheel lock and then fiddle with the shifter, to make sure it is engaging in Park. Does anyone know if there is a solenoid or some sensor that tells the ignition that the shifter is in Park. Something similar to the brake pedal relay or something. I am still lost, but hope this does not result in a huge repair bill.