Scott
You are wrong, and do NOT presume to tell me what I think. The VS may have been damaged in flight, perhaps mortally, but loss of VS has happened both whilst airborne (587), and at sea level, (Perpignan)., and thus far it is not possible to describe its location at impact. It is you who have stubbornly rejected all opinion, and seem to embrace something BEA have not reported as a fact ever. You need an open mind on this matter, imo.
edit. Hint to Chris, jcjeant uses question marks, yet you state as fact that he is concluding facts?? This is an amateur forum, blessed by the presence of some seemingly talented experts. Chill, don't take yourself so seriously.