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Fifth Briton loses battle to survive Grand Canyon helicopter crash

Tuesday, 27 February 20183 min read

A fifth British tourist has died following a helicopter crash in the Grand Canyon that also killed her new husband.

Eleanor Udall, 29, was on her honeymoon with Jonathan Udall, when the Papillon Airways helicopter came down on 10 February.

Mr Udall, who was in his 30s, died in hospital four days ago. Three other Britons died at the scene.

The Eurocopter EC130 helicopter had spun out of control as it tried to land in the Canyon, causing it to crash and burst into flames.

The crash is being investigated by the National Transportation Safety Board but an initial report has not given a precise cause. It said these could include a mechanical problem and gusty winds.

Mrs Udall’s parents said it was ‘with great sadness’ that they announced their daughter had died in a Las Vegas hospital as a result of her injuries.

"The family are exceedingly grateful for everything done by rescue services and volunteers in the Canyon, and throughout the last two weeks by the exceptional staff at UMC (University Medical Centre, Las Vegas)," their statement said.

Stuart Hill, 30, his girlfriend Becky Dobson, 27, and his brother Jason, 32, from West Sussex, also died in the crash.

Another Briton, Jennifer Barham, 39, and the pilot Scott Booth, 42, were injured.