Netflix’s latest true-crime release, Murder in Monaco, reopens one of the most perplexing and controversial cases in modern European history — the death of billionaire financier Edmond Safra. This gripping documentary examines the shocking events of December 3, 1999, when Safra’s life ended in a blaze inside his luxury penthouse in Monaco, a city-state known for its wealth, discretion, and low crime rate.
The film meticulously pieces together the story using court documents, rare archival footage, and interviews with journalists, legal experts, and those close to Safra. The narrative questions whether the official account truly reflects what happened that night, all while exploring the intersection of extreme wealth, high security, and human vulnerability.
Born into a prosperous banking family, Edmond Safra’s career began at just sixteen, working alongside his father. Over the decades, he founded major financial institutions such as the Trade Development Bank and Republic National Bank of New York. Beyond his business empire, Safra was renowned for philanthropy through the Edmond J. Safra Philanthropic Foundation, supporting hundreds of charitable projects across 50 countries.
In his later years, Safra battled Parkinson’s disease and required constant care. On that fateful night, Safra and his caregiver, Vivian Torrente, locked themselves inside a fortified bathroom after believing intruders were in the home. A fire broke out, and despite firefighters’ arrival, the pair refused to open the door — fearing the responders were the attackers. Both died from smoke inhalation.
Central to the case is Ted Maher, a former U.S. Army medic and one of Safra’s nurses. Maher later confessed to starting the fire and injuring himself in a misguided attempt to stage a heroic rescue that he hoped would win Safra’s trust. His plan went tragically wrong as the fire spread uncontrollably. Convicted of arson leading to death, Maher received a 10-year prison sentence.
Murder in Monaco doesn’t stop at recounting the incident. It delves into the wider context of Safra’s life, the intricate security measures in his home, and the challenges of protecting vast wealth. The documentary also revisits the trial’s controversies, raising the question: was the full truth ever uncovered?
With its blend of investigative journalism and human drama, Netflix’s Murder in Monaco is both a cautionary tale and a riveting look into a world where immense power meets tragic vulnerability. Viewers are left contemplating whether the events could have been prevented — and why the case still sparks debate more than two decades later.
Release date: December 17 on Netflix.
