Second benefit on Wednesday for Aptos hit-and-run crash victim

Saturday marked two weeks since a 25-year-old woman from Aptos was seriously hurt in a hit and run just outside her home.

Since then, the community has rallied around Nicole Brown, raising money and support for her recovery.

On Sunday, her close friends hosted a fundraiser in Capitola.They’ve been visiting Brown in the hospital nearly every day since the accident.

“Nicole is getting better everyday. It’s a slow progress but she’s alert and eating and we’re just hoping and praying for the best for her,” friend Tara Hunt said.

They raised $25,000 her and hope to hold another fundraiser.

Suspect Trevor Maddy, 17, was arrested by California Highway Patrol earlier this month, accused of hitting Brown and driving off.

Her friends said it brings some closure, but they have a long road ahead.

Friends of Brown said another fundraiser is being held for her Wednesday, July 1 at Taqueria Baja in Capitola. They said the restaurant is planning to donate 20 percent of their sales from the day to the Nicole Brown Fund until 8 p.m.

On Wednesday, friends said Brown is still in the hospital but is doing better. She’s transitioning out of ICU and is expected to be home in a few weeks.