1994 Mazda 323 Won't start

My '94 Mazda 323 (4 cylinder about 180,000 miles fuel injected) won't start. It may have run out of gas, but even after putting gas in the car it will turn over but not "catch" and start. I was told it may be the fuel pump has gone out. Any other ideas? I tried "priming it" by turning the key on to almost starting it and off a few times before trying to start it. Also I tried hitting the gas tank as I was trying to crank it. (Was told this would possibly jar the fuel pump to work so I could get car to a shop). That too was unsucessful.
I am frustrated. I am out of state visiting family in a small town (they roll the side walks up at 5pm around here and no one open weekends). I was supposed to leave brightand early for the 500 mile drive home in 4 hours. Now I am stuck trying to get my car worked on.I can do some minor repairs. But I just don't have a clue where to start. Thanks.