11-year-old girl shot in face while answering door in Bethlehem, police say

BETHLEHEM, Pennsylvania (WPVI) -- An 11-year-old girl was shot in the face while answering a knock at the door at her family's home in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, police said.

It happened late Wednesday night, shortly before midnight, on the 1900 block of Fairland Avenue.

Many were startled awake by what some assumed were leftover fireworks from the Labor Day weekend.

"We were fast asleep and we heard five gunshot in rapid order," said neighbor Marcie Lightwood.

"Some loud bangs. Didn't know what it was it first a lot of firework activity in the neighborhood," added Nolan Sauerzopf.

Police said the suspect fired five to seven rounds into the rear door of home.

"It was just rapid fire. Boom, boom, boom, boom," neighbor David Minarovic said.

Police said the 11-year-old girl was shot in the face as she opened the door.

Captain Hackett of the Bethlehem Police Department said the child suffered a significant injury, but is expected to recover.

Hackett said the girl is very lucky.

Police do not believe this was a random act, although the victim was likely not the intended target.

Some in the neighborhood agree.

"It seem like whoever did it knew what they were doing," Sauerzopf said.

The only description of the suspect is a man who may have been wearing a face covering at the time.

Neighbors are being asked to stay vigilant.

"We're just gonna lock our doors," said Lightwood.

They are still searching for the suspect and are asking the community to reach out with more information if they saw anything.

Anyone with information should contact Det. Ruvolo at 610 997-7676 or the police tip line 610 691-6660. Callers may remain anonymous.