It sounds as if the main pump was probably noisy but working OK (not unusual).

Usually in tank pumps don't make enough of a noise to growl audibly or to make the car puke (at least with a 1/2 full or better tank of gas). Main pumps do, though.

The symptoms you have described, seem indicative of a bad main pump. The cost is unfortunate, but given the state of the car presently, it probably won't be spent unwisely. If you can get the car home and better yet, running, you can spend more time listening to the fuel pump. Even if not, keying the ignition should give enough sound to the pump to let you know what is making noise. I really suspect the main pump.