SOMBA K'E/YELLOWKNIFE - Police say they've identified "a person of interest" in a beating that left 28-year-old Derrick Sangris in a coma last week, but are still looking for witnesses.

Derrick Sangris, 28, awoke from a coma yesterday, according to police. The RCMP are hoping witnesses will come forward to help identify his attacker after he was found beaten outside a downtown convenience store early Friday morning. - NNSL file photo

Police found Sangris outside of Corner Mart at around 2 a.m. Sept. 11. He was medevaced to Edmonton that same day, where he remained unresponsive for several days.

Sangris regained consciousness Tuesday, but RCMP are "not sure to what extent," Const. Kathy Law said Tuesday.

She added the RCMP general investigation unit in Edmonton is now assisting the Yellowknife detachment and will speak to Sangris and any family members who are down there to gather more information.

Const. Stephanie Ward said police are also hoping witnesses will come forward who may have information on the incident or who can help identify the suspect.

"We do have a person of interest. Still we need more information (from) the public so we can ensure a successful investigation," she said.

"Being that it's (bar) closing time and it's pretty crowded we need all the information we can to ... make sure the persons involved or responsible are brought in for questioning," she added.

Ward said the assault was not called in and officers "were advised by the general public" during their regular area patrol that it had occurred.

She does not know if Sangris was conscious when police found him.

When asked if RCMP consider the area dangerous at bar close, Ward responded: "It is a busy area for police because there are two licensed establishments in that area (and) there's the store, the convenience store. It is a busy area for us."

"If you are in a licensed establishment, please be responsible," she added.