The fire that destroyed Building 21 in Hillcrest Apartments Monday was arson, according to the Asheville Fire Department. Investigators are compiling a list of suspects at this time, and continuing to pursue leads.

The explosion and fire that consumed a building in Hillcrest Apartments yesterday was caused by natural gas, Asheville Fire Chief Scott Burnette told Xpress today. Investigators have yet to determine if the blaze was an accident or arson.