A 17-year-old campaign staffer for the Republican candidate running against Rep. Ilhan Omar in Minneapolis was shot and killed on Monday by unknown assailants.

Lacy Johnson, who is running against Rep. Omar, confirmed on Tuesday that the teenager who was killed in a shooting in North Minneapolis was a member of his outreach team.

Another man who was also injured in the same shooting also worked for Johnson.

CBS Minnesota reports that both members were not performing campaign duties when the shooting occurred on Monday afternoon at the intersection of North Fremont and Dowling Avenues.

"Today, we are shocked and saddened to learn of this senseless act of violence. It is shocking and unnecessary acts of violence like this that prove why change is more needed than ever in our community," Johnson said to the press.

A group of people were standing outside of a convenience store when one or more shooters opened fire. Both the teenager and the man who survived were brought to Hennepin Healthcare for treatment, but the teenager was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. The other man was listed in serious but stable condition.

Police say that the shooters fled the scene on foot and are currently wanted.

The Minneapolis Police Department told WCCO that they do not believe the shooting was a politically motivated hit.

Violent crime has skyrocketed following the riots that took place in June following the death of George Floyd, prompting the Minneapolis City Council to vote to defund the police. Despite plans to abolish the police, the city’s efforts to do so have stalled.

A campaign aid for Johnson speaking to Fox 9 said that the death of his colleague is proof that Minneapolis is in dire need of new leadership.