“Edmond Safra Murder Mystery Hits Netflix with ‘Murder in Monaco'”

Netflix has recently released a documentary titled Murder in Monaco, delving into the chilling murder of billionaire banker Edmond Safra. Set in the luxurious enclave of Monaco in 1999, this true crime feature narrates the perplexing circumstances surrounding the death of one of the world’s wealthiest individuals.

Edmond Safra: A Brief Background

Edmond Safra, born into affluence, amassed substantial wealth by establishing prominent banks, including the Republic National Bank of New York. By 67, he required constant care due to Parkinson’s disease, relying on nurses like Vivian Torrente.

The Fatal Night

On December 3, 1999, a tragic series of events unfolded in Safra’s penthouse. Fearing they were under attack from armed intruders, Safra and Torrente locked themselves in a fortified bathroom. Unbeknownst to them, their penthouse was engulfed in flames.

The Role of Ted Maher

• Ted Maher, an Army veteran, was employed as a nurse and bodyguard for Safra.
• He had been called to cover Torrente’s overnight shift that fateful night.
• Instead of providing care, Maher initiated a dangerous scheme.

Maher informed Safra and Torrente about the supposed break-in, leading them to barricade themselves in the bathroom. He then ignited a fire in a wastepaper basket. In a shocking twist, Maher even stabbed himself to fabricate a home invasion scenario, intending to emerge as a hero.

The Aftermath

Tragically, Maher’s plan backfired. The fire spread quickly, resulting in both Safra and Torrente succumbing to smoke inhalation. Emergency responders were unable to reach them in time.

Confession and Legal Proceedings

In the days following the incident, Maher confessed to starting the fire, believing he could rescue Safra and gain appreciation for his efforts. Monaco’s chief prosecutor remarked that his actions stemmed from jealousy towards other caregivers.

Despite Maher’s defense team claiming he had no intention of killing Safra, he was convicted of both deaths in December 2002 and sentenced to ten years in prison. However, his time behind bars was tumultuous.

Escape and Subsequent Arrests

Two months after his sentencing, Maher escaped by sawing through his cell bars, but was recaptured within hours. Following his release, he faced further legal troubles, including arrests in 2022 for burglary and a murder-for-hire plot in 2025.

Conclusion

Today, Ted Maher remains imprisoned in the United States. The documentary Murder in Monaco reveals the dark twists of this historic case, capturing viewer interest in the tragic demise of Edmond Safra. The film is currently available for streaming on Netflix.