If the goal was to hide and cover up deaths then they just wouldn't say anything about it. In your theory, they are already covering up the deaths, right? So why even mention the downing at all? The mentioning of it came from US sources after all.
What is the logic in making it known one went down at all in that case? Explain that. If you can't, then I don't think there is any reason to give much value to your thoughts on this. I rate your post a 2/10 in logic, but 7/10 in propaganda.
More likely is that the Apache was shot at. Took damage, but maintained enough control so that they could ditch into the sea safely. Anyone who ever played Electronic Art's LHX as a kid knows about autorotation. Duhhh.