HONOLULU — In the wake of Sunday’s deadly three-alarm fire in Waikiki, two district legislators are emphasizing the importance of enhanced fire safety measures for older buildings.

“As the HFD investigates the fire’s cause, we are aware that many residential buildings in our communities are aging and may lack the structural integrity of newer buildings,” said state Sen. Sharon Moriwaki and Rep. Adrian Tam in a joint statement issued Monday morning. “We remain dedicated to analyzing fire safety measures to ensure that our buildings without sprinkler systems are adequately equipped to protect their occupants. The issue of fire safety remains a priority for us.”

The fire at 1829 Kaioo Drive was first reported at 3:02 p.m. Arriving Honolulu Fire Department personnel found the two-story walkup building engulfed in smoke and flames.

Thirteen HFD units staffed with 51 personnel responded to the fire. Firefighters brought the blaze under control at 3:26 p.m. and had it fully extinguished by 3:42 p.m.

Due to concerns over the structure’s integrity, HFD personnel waited until after the fire was extinguished to search for occupants.

Two people who have yet to be identified were found dead at the scene. No other injuries, including to HFD personnel, were reported.

Moriwaki and Tam expressed their sympathies to those affected.

“Our deepest condolences go out to the families and friends of the two Waikiki residents who passed away in the devastating fire that occurred yesterday,” they stated. “Our thoughts are also with the neighbors and residents in the building who were affected and have been displaced.”

Michael Tsai covers local and state politics for Spectrum News Hawaii. He can be reached at michael.tsai@charter.com.