Starting problems

I have a 2000 Chevrolet S-10 2x2 4cyl. My son brought the vehicle home the other night and when he went to start the vehicle the next day it would not start. He was low on fuel and had to put gas in the vehicle via gas cans. After put the gas in, the vehicle would start after using starting fluid but would not stay running. I replaced the fuel filter and this did not help. I can hear the fuel pump run for a few seconds then stop, After stopping I try to start it and it still won't start. He has been having problems with the vehicle that when he accelerates to high RPM's the vehicle would stall and when you pulled over to the side of the road and waited a few minutes it would start. Whant do you think is the problem. Thanks