Brake and running lights out

I have an odd problem with my car.

The electricals have been wonky for a while. The warning chime sounds constantly with the door open, regardless of whether the key is in the ignition or the lights on.

Recently, the running lights came on with the brake lights.

Then, all of the rear running and brake lights failed. The turn signals work. The front running lights and headlights work. The brake lights appear to be shorted (I need to re-check)

I am guessing that the running light relay or the warning chime is defective and shorting back, but I can't find the relay. I know the warning chime is under the steering wheel, I'll attack that tonight.

Any ideas? Thanks much!

Erik

Check the ground wire on the rear tail light assemblies. The only electrical part the brake lights and the running lights share is the ground. The + circuits are completely separate for the two.