Peter W. Ignatz was born in Perth Amboy, New Jersey on October 17, 1908 and resided in Keasby, New Jersey. He received a Grammar School education at the Grammar School of Perth Amboy. Prior to his employment with the New Jersey State Police, Trooper Ignatz was employed by the Sarnoff-Irving Hat Company in Perth Amboy.

Trooper Ignatz enlisted with the New Jersey State Police on July 1, 1930 as a member of the 22nd State Police Class. He was assigned to Troop "B", Morristown. His service with the New Jersey State Police was characterized by loyalty, fearless performance of duty and faithful and energetic devotion to the principles of the New Jersey State Police.

The death of Trooper Ignatz resulted from injuries received while in the performance of duty.

On March 4, 1931, Trooper Ignatz was returning to Troop "B" Headquarters in Morristown after having covered an accident call that he had been investigating. While travelling west along Mendham Road in Morris Township, Trooper Ignatz attempted to overtake a motor vehicle. While rounding a sharp turn in the road, his motorcycle and side car crashed into the left front end of a Federal truck. The impact threw him against the corner cab of the truck. His skull was fractured and he died instantly.

Trooper Ignatz served 8 months with the New Jersey State Police.
Trooper Ignatz was survived his mother and father. He was 23 years old.