Sadly this was not the second but third loss of a firefighting aircraft in France in the last week. First was the S-2 on the mainland, then an Air Crane helo two days before the Canadair also in Sardinia and also combatting a possible arson fire.
One report I saw today, stated that the BEA had recovered the FDR - didn't know any waterbomber had them. Also had a long statement from the head of the Securite saying, in essence, that they looked after their aircraft very well because of the type of flying they did and that this aircraft (the 415) was relatively new. Also appeared to be some contention between witnesses whether the tail came of first or after it hit the high ground.
Having met & flown with pilots who developed some of the tactics, I appreciate the amount of skill needed for this work and the effect on this small, elite group.
My condolences to all.