What would cause a starter to continue to go after the key is released? We couldnt get it to stop until the battery was disconnected.

The only sign of trouble is the starter wire (small terminal) was laying against the header, so it was possibly burnt.

 

mine did that about 3 years ago after sitting about a month..I just disconnected the battery. It was weird that never happened in any car I had before. It has never done it since.......

 

Low voltage=high amperage; can "weld" solenoid together internally.
Several things can cause the started to run on though, this is just the most common symptom i've seen.

 

you got lucky. my starter set on fire. talk about crappin the pants. fortunately my car didnt burn to the ground.

 

Usually a bad solenoid. Sounds like new starter time. Add a remote solenoid kit (ford style) while your at it.

 

That happened in my truck at a gas station, glad it did not catch fire Before I could get the battery disconnected the starter locked up.

 

Yep the solonoid was welded together internally, thanks guys for the advice.