Police say there is no suspect in a one-punch attack that left Gold Coast’s father on life support

A Gold Coast father of two, who was on life support after being beaten, had been speaking to his alleged attacker, police said.

The man who left 39-year-old Michael Hayes in critical condition since Saturday night’s attack has not been caught – and police have no suspect.

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Hayes was dining with friends at Destino Wine and Bar in Sanctuary Cove when he went outside around 9:20 p.m., Detective Inspector Chris Ahearn said Wednesday.

Hayes was seen speaking to a male who is believed to have “punched a punch,” Ahearn said.

The detective said the force of the blow caused Hayes to fall to the ground.

He remains in “really critical condition” in the intensive care unit at Gold Coast University Hospital, Ahearn said.

“He’s on life support at the moment and we hope he pulls through,” he said.

“We are committed to identifying the individual responsible for the attack on Mr. Hayes.”

The suspect is said to be between 20 and 30 years old and have short dark hair.

He was carrying a satchel or a man’s bag over his shoulder, Ahearn said.

Understanding the nature of the conversation between Hayes and the unknown man will be crucial to the investigation.

There was “nothing overtly aggressive about the conversation” until Hayes was hit from the front, Ahearn said.

“This is further evidence that a single blow can seriously injure a person,” Ahearn said.

Several investigators are dealing with the case and have urged witnesses to come forward.

This includes anyone who was near the restaurant at the time and anyone who might have dash cam footage of Hope Island between 9 and 10 p.m. on Saturday.