Police are concerned innocent children are being caught up in family “conflict” after shots were fired into a Sydney home.

Shots were fired at a house on Queen Street in Croydon Park in the city’s south west about 8pm yesterday.

Witnesses told police a man was standing outside before firing two shots from a pistol towards it. 

A 44-year-old man, three women aged between 40 and 71, a six-year-old girl and a five-year-old boy were inside.

The gunman then drove off in a white Toyota Corolla, heading on Travistock Street. 

Detective Acting Superintendent Luke Scott said the shooting is believed to be targeted.

Officers especially want information on the man and the car.

“The same is true of anybody that may have any information in relation to the people who are sneaking around in the darkness at night time and hiding behind a gun to sort out their conflicts,” he said.

“Not only is your loyalty to those people compromising our community safety, it could be compromising the safety of your family as well.”

Scott said he was concerned young children had been caught up in a “conflict” their family may be involved in.

“I’m absolutely concerned that anybody is shooting at a residence not knowing who is inside that premises,” he said.

“This is an example of where young people are being put at risk based on the things that their families or their associates are involved in.”

It was the city’s second shooting overnight.

Shots were fired at a unit on Calabria Lane in Prairiewood about 11.25pm while an 80-year-old woman was inside.

She was not injured and investigators believe the shooting was a case of mistaken identity. 

A white Ford Ranger was seen in the area.

Police don’t believe the two shootings are linked.