why did my explorer die?

Same with any no start , check for proper spark , fuel pressure and injector pulse

I doubt the two things are related. A vehicle won't die because you need to put air in the tires. Turn the ignition on but don't try to start the engine. You should hear the fuel pump run for a few seconds. If not, get a hammer and hit the bottom center of the gas tank a few times. Don't beat the tar out of it, just a few hits. If that gets you going it's a bad fuel pump. Hope that helps! Jim