"We heard eight gunshots...and heard police telling him, 'drop the gun, drop the gun,'" a neighbor who had to be evacuated through her window said.
Last week, the city of Dickinson approved funds to help residents with moving expenses from the problem-riddled complex, which is ruining Christmas, according to tenants.
Tenants at the Creekside Apartments were forced to move out amid unsafe conditions. Now, the city passed a resolution that would give residents money to help with the move.
Video shows the flames ripping across the roof of the building. Fire department officials said about 16 units were damaged in the blaze.
Residents at the apartment complex attempted to extinguish the fire with buckets and water hoses before HFD arrived.
There is a double fire watch in effect for safety measures, as some units are still undergoing extensive repairs and are closed to residents, a city employee said.