LAS VEGAS - In a devastating incident on a Las Vegas freeway, two Nevada State Police (NSP) troopers lost their lives after being struck by a driver. The radio traffic recordings following the incident indicate that the officers initially couldn't be located by their colleagues.

According to sources close to the investigation, the sergeant and trooper were conducting an investigation into a potentially impaired driver who appeared to be asleep at the wheel. This investigation was taking place on the side of Interstate 15 northbound at the D Street offramp when tragedy struck.

Sources reveal that the second driver collided with the NSP troopers, propelling them into the air and causing them to land on the road below I-15, which ultimately led to their fatal injuries.

The crash occurred shortly before 3:30 a.m. on Thursday, as confirmed by LVMPD Deputy Chief Branden Clarkson. Following extensive efforts by the Metro police and other law enforcement agencies, the suspected driver was apprehended at an apartment complex located at Monroe Avenue and J Street.

While Deputy Chief Clarkson did not officially confirm impairment during the initial news conference, sources inform 8 News Now Investigators that impairment was suspected, and the arrested driver is expected to face charges including two counts of DUI resulting in death.

Out of respect for the families of the fallen officers, 8 News Now has refrained from identifying them until Nevada State Police confirms that their loved ones have been notified. Video footage associated with this tragic incident has been edited to avoid revealing the troopers' identities.

Heartbreaking audio from the radio traffic recordings sheds light on the chaos that unfolded. One of the fallen officers can be heard communicating with a dispatcher about stopping to investigate the driver who appeared to be asleep near the off-ramp. Approximately nine minutes later, two other troopers express concern over their missing colleagues.

Amid the confusion, a state police officer asks, "I'm trying to understand [one trooper] and [another trooper] are missing, and you don't know where they are?" Another officer responds, "I see one trooper on D Street. I don't know where [one trooper is]."

As the situation unfolds, the first trooper asks the dispatcher, "Do you see [one trooper's] car on the map?" The gravity of the situation becomes apparent when the trooper states, "We're going to have to shut down this ramp. I've got [the second trooper], and it's not looking good."

While the driver who the troopers were assisting sustained no injuries, this tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks law enforcement officers face daily to ensure public safety.

To help alleviate the financial burden on injured or fallen police officers and their families, the Injured Police Officer's Fund accepts donations. Those who wish to contribute can visit ipof.vegas/nevada-state-police-donation.

As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of these dedicated law enforcement professionals who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.