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Woman pistol-whipped during Altamonte Springs carjacking

SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. — Two men suspected of beating a woman before taking off in her car, and then leading authorities on a chase in Seminole County were taken into custody.

Police said they were looking for two or three other men who may also have been involved.

Altamonte Springs police said at about 4 a.m. Monday, four to five men carjacked and pistol-whipped a woman at the Cranes Roost condominiums in Altamonte Springs.

Residents said they were shocked to learn of the carjacking.

"Makes you think twice about walking around, especially in this area. It's not like in the slums. I feel like I've got to carry something around if I'm just walking to the store," said resident Jamal Hawkins.

Police said the incident happened at about 4 a.m. Monday as the woman arrived home.

"She advised that she had been struck in the head by the butt of a pistol. Officers made contact with the victim, who was visibly shaken, but will be OK," said Altamonte Springs Police Officer Rob Pelton.

Lake Mary police said they spotted the stolen car traveling on I-4, and when they tried to pull the driver over, he sped off.

The driver then lost control during the pursuit with authorities and crashed near the 417 Expressway after exiting at 25th Street.

"So as soon as they were seen, they obviously knew police were behind them and drove off the road.

Probably not intentional, but because of their aggressive driving, they lost control and went off the road," Pelton said.

After the car nearly crashed into a retention pond, the men jumped out of the car.

WFTV was at the scene when two men, including Harvey Bazile, were found and taken into custody, but the other two or three men fled on foot and are being sought.

Police said two other vehicles seen in the area may also have been involved.