1999 Other Nissan Models timing belt

my wife was trying to start the car and it would not turn over, the tow truck driver and my friend told me it sounded like the timing belt, the belt has never been changed to my knowledge. My question is that everybody but this tow truck driver was telling me because of the damage a broken timing belt does to the valves etc. it is better just to spend $1500 on an engine.....but this tow truck driver is telling me it is a scam and his mechanic friend can change the timing belt for $350.....is it ever just the timing belt when it breaks while trying to start it.