TWO people were arrested for a quadruple murder in upstate New York, authorities announced overnight.

The New York Post reports that Justin Mann and James White were arraigned in Troy City Court around 8.30am Saturday after being arrested Friday night. Both men face four counts of first-degree and second-degree murder.

Shanta Myers, her lesbian lover Brandi Mells, son, Jeremiah, 11, and daughter, Shanise, five, were found bound with slit throats the day after Christmas in their basement apartment.

"We also thank the public for all their tips and assistance in aiding in the investigation along with the media for the abundance of coverage they have provided," according to a statement from Troy police. "We appreciate all of the help and co-operation."

According to CBS 6's Steve Maugeri, both Mann and White have entered 'not guilty' pleas. Their preliminary hearings will be held January 4.

Myers' other child, Isaiah, 15, was not home at the time was the sole survivor of the homicide.

Isaiah, who was away in Massachusetts, said he was scared that the suspects were "coming for [him] next".

Speaking about the moment he found out about his family he said he "couldn't believe it. I fell down to the ground right in the bathroom and cried thinking who would've done this?"

Troy Police Chief James Tedesco said the murders were an abominable act of 'savagery.'

"After being in this business for almost 42 years, I can't describe the savagery of this. I don't have the word," he said. "There are indications at the crime scene that this was not a random act."

This article originally appeared in the New York Post