96 festiva/aspire cranks but won't start

[Truckerau]

I bought a 96 festiva and it ran perfectly for the first 10 minutes, when the engine lost power pulling out of a red light, and now no longer starts. I have tested with starting fluid and the engine flutters for a couple seconds before shutting off so I believe the problem lies somewhere in the fuel line. There's also a strange black box that I haven't seen in any videos or pictures tucked into the back of the engine bay, which currently appears to be in the off position, im not sure if its related but pic attached anyhow. Also, since the loss of power the hazard lights now flash whenever the key is in the ignition.

If anyone's able to give me any pointers that would be much appreciated! It's my first project car and I'm keen to learn

[Racespire95]

Box appears to possibly be some sort of security system , possible it's armed/triggered and killing the fuel pump?

[tooldude]

You should check the fuel pressure if you can. Change the fuel filter first. It may be clogged and the service life is probably unknown to you anyway.

[Truckerau]

Box appears to possibly be some sort of security system , possible it's armed/triggered and killing the fuel pump?

Interesting, I thought this could be it. I'll have a look tomorrow

[Truckerau]

You should check the fuel pressure if you can. Change the fuel filter first. It may be clogged and the service life is probably unknown to you anyway.

Am not able to check the fuel pressure currently, but nothing is flowing through the lines and the previous owner tells me the fuel filter is brand new, which I'd believe as it's still shiny and smooth