#2 cylinder misfire code with a loud tapping sound

While on the expressway, the check engine light begn to flash and then light steady. The car was running fine at the time with no noises being heard. The car was pulled off the expressway and while sitting at an idle, a loud tapping could be heard. Not like the typical lifter tap, louder and more metalic sound. The engine began to idle very rough and a strong odor of fuel was detected. The car was towed to a garage where the mechanic said that there was a #2 mis-fire code. He also said that when he removed the #2 wire from the coil, the car would crank over 30 times and try to start but fail. Removing another wire allows the car to start but gives a roughness to the engine. He is scratching his head and trying to get outside advise. Any help would be greatly appreciated. PLEASE!