ST. JOHN'S, Newfoundland -- Canadian police have recovered all 17 bodies from the wreckage of a helicopter that crashed in the freezing Atlantic off the coast of Newfoundland.
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A Cougar Helicopters Sikorsky S-92 helicopter is seen on the helideck of an offshore oil rig on the Grand Banks of Newfoundland in this undated file picture. [Agencies]
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The Sikorsky S-92 was carrying 18 workers to oil platforms on Thursday when it reported mechanical problems and ditched into the sea about 30 miles (50 kilometers) from shore.
Remote controlled cameras have revealed that the cockpit was damaged, the fuselage cracked and the tail boom broken off, said lead investigator Mike Cunningham. One survivor and one body were recovered shortly after the crash.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police said early Tuesday that the final seven bodies were recovered. Nine were recovered on Monday.
"It certainly brings closure," RCMP Sgt. Wayne Newell said.
The lone survivor, Robert Decker, remained at the Health Sciences Centre in St. John's in critical condition. David Philpott, a family friend and spokesman, said his condition is improving.
"He has been able to speak briefly," Philpott said.
The Hibernia oil platform is located about 200 miles (320 kilometers) east of St. John's, the provincial capital of Newfoundland and Labrador.
