Navy Pier is pictured in a file photo. (Wirestock via iStock)

Two people killed Tuesday afternoon at Navy Pier were killed in a “targeted” shooting believed to have been carried out by a disgruntled ex-employee, police officials said.

The victims, both men who were ages 47 and 51, were shot at around 1:15 p.m. in an administrative office in a nonpublic space at the popular tourist site, Chicago police Chief of Patrol Jon Hein said.

According to Hein both victims were struck in the head and were rushed to a local hospital where they were pronounced dead. The men, whose names have not yet been released, worked for a subcontractor at Navy Pier.

Police said a person of interest is being sought but not yet in custody, but officials believe guests and members of the public were never at risk.

“The Pier is clear now,” Hein said. “The pier is safe.”

Hein said it appeared the alleged shooter entered a loading dock and opened fire.

"On behalf of Navy Pier, we also send our condolences to the victims, who just came to work today,” Navy Pier spokesperson Brian Murphy said.

According to Murphy, the site enacted safety protocols immediately after the shooting and temporarily locked down the site. Once they determined the suspect had left the area and it was deemed safe, Navy Pier was reopened.

The alleged shooter was terminated from his position last month," according to Hein. He is currently being "actively" sought by police.

“We have identified who we believe the suspect is,” Hein said, “and we’re hoping to have him in custody very shortly.”