Losing the pitch axis could well be just down to disorientation from being spun around - again speculation.
No disagreement there.
FWIW, Tail Rotor on the Blackhawk, when all things are going well, provides about 2.5% of overall lift.
If John's estimate is correct on the TR beginning to slow down, that incremental loss of lift back there (with a substantial moment arm) would likely contribute some pitch instability.
Originally Posted by JohnDixson
Did a nice auto to calm seas and all were picked up quickly. Their problem did not initiate in a hover or close to it. and they had the altitude to get things in order.
Good point. This crew apparently did not (but that's a guess, video's have limited frame of reference).