Driver Pistol Whipped in Head, Two Passengers Shot, Authorities Say

Two men were shot when they exited their vehicle early Saturday morning and the driver was pistol whipped in the head, according to the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

Four victims arrived at 6200 15th St. E. when they were followed by an unknown car into the driveway. Two men approached the driver's side of the victim's vehicle. The driver was pistol whipped in the head and dragged from the vehicle, officials said. His wallet, containing about $500, was also taken, officials said.

Two of the car's passengers got out and were shot. The third passenger hid in the back seat. The suspects fled in an unknown direction on 15th Street East, authorities report.

Both gunshot victims were in surgery early Saturday morning and were expected to live. The incident occurred around 1:30 a.m. officials said.