Bertram T. Zimmerman III was born on August 29, 1971 in Camden, New Jersey. He was a graduate of Highland High School, Gloucester County College and Rutgers University. He played baseball for his high school and colleges and with the Tri-County Hardenberg/Petes.

Prior to enlisting in the New Jersey State Police, Trooper Zimmerman was also a Special Police Officer for Gloucester Township and then an officer for the Evesham Township Police Department.

Trooper Zimmerman enlisted in the New Jersey State Police on March 14, 2001 as a member of the 119th Class and was stationed at the Woodbine Station in Troop “A” serving on the Tactical Patrol Unit at the time of his death. His service with the New Jersey State Police was characterized by loyalty, fearless performance of his duty and faithful and honorable devotion to the principles of the New Jersey State Police.

Trooper Zimmerman died as a result of injuries received while in the performance of duty.

Trooper Zimmerman was working as part of a team of State Police Troopers and Detectives investigating recent armed robberies at area convenience stores. At approximately 2:59 am on Thursday, February 5, 2004, Trooper Zimmerman was responding to assist in a robbery call from the Dennisville area when his troop car went out of control and struck a utility pole on state highway 83 near US 9 in Dennis Township, Cape May County. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Trooper Zimmerman served 2 years and 7 months with the New Jersey State Police.

He is survived by his wife, his mother and two sisters. Trooper Zimmerman was 32 years old.