YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio -- Although they were in a house that had been fortified against intruders, four people were slain last night in what police believe was the latest strike in an ongoing feud.

Two of the victims had survived previous shootings; one had been left partially paralyzed, however.

The bodies of all four -- all shot multiple times -- were found in the same upstairs bedroom, the only room of the dilapidated house that had heat, thanks to two space heaters. There was no running water in the house in the 500 block of Evergreen Street.

Authorities today identified the victims as Christopher Howard, 24, who appeared to be living at the home; Marvin Boone, 19; Anthony Crockett, 23; and Danielle Parker, 22. All are from Youngstown.

Rick Jamrozik, the coroner investigator, said all four died of multiple gunshot wounds in what appeared to be a surprise attack.

"Everything was fortified. There was some forcible entry," Mr. Jamrozik said.

A handgun was found near Mr. Howard's body, leading investigators to speculate he tried to defend himself.

"It looked like he tried to return fire. The weapon was jammed," Mr. Jamrozik said.

Mr. Howard had been wounded in a shooting last year and required use of a wheelchair. Mr. Crockett was released from the hospital three weeks ago after he was shot.

Mr. Howard's body was found on the floor. Mr. Boone and Mr. Crockett were sprawled on couches. Ms. Parker was found crouched in a corner.

No arrests were announced.

Police didn't say who reported the shootings or found the bodies shortly before 11 p.m.

Police blocked off an area of about 15 houses on the city's South Side during the investigation as a crowd of as many as 75 people gathered in snowy weather, with many onlookers crying or screaming. A woman waiting outside the house collapsed in tears as authorities removed a body from the house.

In an effort to learn more about the victims, police were interviewing eight people who arrived at the scene after they learned of the shootings, Capt. Michael Vodilko said.

More details in tomorrow's Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.