just heard a strange noise outside of my apartment

it was loud and like a banging noise. it sounded like a gunshot but I can't say that it was for certain though also its the middle of the night where I live so I don't know what else it would be this isnt a normal thing or occurrence either. it seemed to be a one time thing.i just hear it but haven't heard anything since then hopefully it wasn't anything sinister or dangerous and it was something innocent.