[Sherlock]

A conspiracist might say something like the accomplice was a Middle Easterner who kidnapped Elizabeth for someone high in the Saudi government, say. Because of the 'sensitive nature' of such a situation to keep Ricci quiet they might set up an FBI 'medical' team at the hospital and fly Ricci there for an 'operation' by them. No reporters are allowed in, Ricci quickly has the plug pulled when in actuality he is disguised and taken to the airport to fly to South America where Angela will meet up with him in a few months. A quick cremation would be the next logical step.

[Ditter]

Hey, I think you are onto something (NOT)! ;9}