SANTA FE SPRINGS — A 12-year-old boy was shot and wounded as he slept in his bed late Wednesday, authorities said.

The attack took place just after 11 p.m. in the 9300 block of Danby Avenue, Whittier police Officer Bradley White said.

“When we arrived on-scene, we discovered a 12-year-old male had suffered a gunshot wound to his leg,” he said. “He was inside sleeping in his room when the shots were fired.”

The boy was treated at a hospital and released early Thursday, White added.

Though detectives initially suspected the attack to be gang-related, “We don’t know why this house was targeted,” White said.

The bullet that struck the boy pierced a front window of the house, family members said. Another bullet struck the windowsill, and another hit a door.

“There was maybe six to seven shots fired,” said a cousin of the young victim who asked that his name be withheld for fear of retaliation. “I don’t know where the other ones went.”

The family was relaxing at home when their peace was suddenly shattered by the gunfire, said the cousin.

The cousin said he was awakened by the shots and immediately dropped to the floor along with the others in the home.

Then he saw the wounded little boy.

“He was in so much shock, I thought it was worse,” the cousin said.

He said he felt relieved when he heard the little boy speak, saying, “It burns.”

Following the shooting, a car was heard speeding away from the home, said the cousin.

He added that the family had no idea why someone would shoot at the home.

The little boy’s knee was shattered by the bullet, his cousin said, and he may require surgery later in the recovery process. The boy plays flag football in a local league.

No suspect description was available, and the circumstances of the shooting also remained under investigation, police said. Neighbors reported hearing the gunshots, but not seeing the incident.

Anyone with information was asked to contact Whittier police at 562-567-9200.