YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio - Youngstown police say a woman found dead in an early morning house fire was murdered.

The body of Erika Huff, 41, was found in a back bedroom following a fire at her home at 44 Cleveland Avenue. She had been beaten with a hammer.

Police believe she was murdered by a man she trusted.

They also believe he tried to cover up evidence of her murder by setting the house on fire.

Officers responding to calls for help removed an air conditioner from the back of the home and rescued Denise Huff.  She was also beaten and taken to the hospital for non-life-threatening injuries. 

After that rescue they found Erika's body, who is Denise's daughter.  

Erika was confined to a wheelchair, unable to walk because she suffered from MS.

Police are not saying how Erika was killed but they say her body was found in a manner they believe prove she was murdered. 

Police believe Erika was killed by her friend, Lance Hundley, 46.  He was living in the home and was inside when police arrived.
Hundley was arrested and was also taken to St. Elizabeth Health Center for injuries.  

Erika had a six-year-old daughter who was not in the home at the time of the fire.  She is currently staying with relatives.

Neighbors say Erika was well-liked and they were shocked to hear about what happened to her.

Phil Smith says, "My heart goes out to the whole family. Her mother was very close to her and her brother was very close to her. The whole family supported her 100% and allowed her to do some things on her own. It's just a sad day."

Rick Stewart says, "Erika is a good girl that's all I know. I love her daughter she has a beautiful little daughter. Her dog would come over and play with my dogs. Her daughter would play with my dogs every now and then."

 Police say Hundley is charged with aggravated murder and attempted aggravated murder.  Arson charges are also pending.