Steering Wheel Ignition Nightmare

[teetime4one]

If Asked and answered...please share link. I looked to no avail.

I get in my car three days ago and find the key will not turn. It acted as if the steering wheel was in the lock position. I turn the wheel and it locks...so, that wasn't it. Now the car starts without issue.

Here's the problem. The steering wheel is stuck in the lock position with the car running. I have to turn the wheel left and right (with force) in order to free-up the steering. There is a snap/pop when the wheel frees, leading me to believe it is a lock pin of some sort. This has continued to be the issue for the past couple of days.

I have yet to open the steering column to investigate. I know what it looks like in there...have a feeling it's an internal part that will be hidden from view.

Ideas? Links?
Please keep in mind that I do not partake in libations. So, Jack Daniels isn't going to help me this time around.