That's one explanation for the fact that eight of the nine people on board survived and only Fuddy did not. At this time, there are other possibilities. But all plausible explanations must come up with some factor that differed as it pertained to Fuddy when contrasted with the eight survivors.
BTW, FWIW, Fuddy's Deputy Health Dept. director was among the survivors.
http://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/small-plane-crashes-water-off-molokai-hawaii-21187906
In the water, Fuddy held hands with deputy director Keith Yamamoto as he tried to help her relax, said the Rev. Patrick Killilea, who consoled Yamamoto after the ordeal.
“He recounted how he said he helped Loretta into her life jacket and he held her hand for some time,” the priest said. “They were all floating together and she let go and there was no response from her.”
AVIATION PING