Netflix has released a new true-crime documentary titled Murder in Monaco, which delves into the shocking 1999 death of billionaire banker Edmond Safra. Directed by Hodges Usry, the film reignites discussions surrounding Safra’s mysterious demise, which had captivated the media in the early 2000s. At the heart of the story is Ted Maher, Safra’s nurse, who was arrested for murder following the tragic events.
The documentary revisits the fateful night of December 3, 1999, when a fire erupted in Safra’s Monte Carlo penthouse. Maher, along with nurses Vivian Torrente and Edmond himself, was present when chaos ensued. Allegedly seeking to gain Safra’s favor, Maher ignited a fire in a wastebasket, aiming to stage a heroic rescue. However, the plan spiraled out of control, leading to devastating consequences as smoke filled the penthouse.
In a troubling turn, Maher attempted to fabricate a story of masked intruders, even injuring himself to lend credibility to his claims. His narrative unraveled when firefighters arrived, as Safra refused to exit, convinced that danger lurked outside. Unfortunately, by the time help reached them, both Safra and Torrente succumbed to smoke inhalation.
Following the incident, Ted Maher was quickly arrested. Initially maintaining his story about the intruders, he later confessed to starting the fire. In December 2002, he was convicted of arson-related manslaughter and sentenced to ten years in prison. Amidst the fallout, his then-wife, Heidi Maher, claimed that he was innocent and had been coerced into confessing by law enforcement, creating doubt about his conviction.
Heidi’s allegations gained traction due to the absence of Safra’s extensive security team on the night of his death, leading some to speculate about the possibility of a premeditated attack. The circumstances surrounding this case continue to provoke intrigue and debate, particularly with the release of the documentary.
In January 2003, just a month after his sentencing, Maher attempted to escape from prison, but his flight was short-lived as he was captured shortly after. Ultimately, he served eight years of his sentence before his release in October 2007. After returning to the United States, Maher’s life took another dark turn, leading to further legal troubles, including charges of vehicle theft and kidnapping.
Most recently, in 2023, Maher faced additional legal issues, leading to accusations of a murder-for-hire plot against his ex-wife, compounded by health issues that include late-stage throat cancer. He was sentenced to nine years in prison in July 2025 for his involvement in this scheme, and is currently being held in a medical correctional facility in New Mexico.
The story of Edmond Safra and Ted Maher continues to resonate with audiences, particularly with the release of Murder in Monaco. As viewers reflect on the complex dynamics of the case, it raises important questions about trust, betrayal, and the lengths individuals will go to for power and wealth.