I have, in this instance, a starter that is "too diligent"
Hopped in my car one day, attempted to start it, no "engine turn over" at all, reminded me of when the battery is dead.
However, after "releasing the key" noticed an odd noise coming from the engine, like a spinning motor that won't start.
Looking in the engine, appears the noise is coming from "the starter region" and the starter itself is getting very hot.
Disconnected the battery and the noise stopped. Noise continues even without the key in the ignition.
97 Honda Accord in this case.