What could cause the ignition,(key), to stop working without warning

What is your question?

Functioned Perfectly one start, NOTHING, the next. All lights flash on. SOMETHING, in engine primes, but NOTHING in engine. No clicks, totally dead. (Ignition modified to start with screwdriver). Brake pedal is super tight. No previous symptoms or warning. Button on shifter permanently depressed.

What makes this problem better or worse?

have not been able to start car.

How long has your 1993 BMW 740i had this problem?

I week