[Shotimes] strange brake problem, possibly causing the car to not start??

[Jared Melcho]

this is quite far fetched but i had neglected to change my brake pads and they were causing a loud grinding noise when driving the car at low speeds.  this was happening for about a week and after driving my car about 20mi i parked it, got out and smoke was flowing from out of the drivers side rear wheel.  i was on my way, came back about 8 hours later or so after work and the car would not start.  i got it towed home, popped off the tires and went to changing the brake pads and they were completely toasted and definately causing the grinding noise.  i was wondering if anyone knew how this could possibly be causing the car to not start?  i believe my fuel pump is not turning on because you cannot hear it when turning the key over to give power to the car.  any ideas would be very appreciated.