It was a phone call to the Guam Police Department that set things in motion, leading to the arrest of a stepfather and mother charged in the murder of their little boy. 

KUAM spoke exclusively with the godparents of three-year-old Thomas Junior Cruz who made a promise to their late godson, they would get answers for his death.

“He loved to play. He loved to run around. He was just a really happy kid,” said Riana Camacho. 

Riana and Nathan Camacho described their godson, Thomas Junior Cruz as a kid who always carried around a bag of toy cars wherever he went.  

The three-year old, who they lovingly called 'Little TJ’ died on July 7 after being removed from life support. It was on July 4 when Little TJ was taken to the Guam Regional Medical City and then to the Guam Memorial Hospital. 

According to court documents, medical records indicated a substantial amount of water in his lungs.

A day after Little TJ's death, Riana Camacho who resides in Texas, made a call to the Guam Police Department. 

“There were just so many red flags that led up to it because first of all, they said he drowned. That was it,” Riana said. 

She decided to do some investigating on her own, saying, “I contacted the property manager at Villa Rosario and I asked, did you hear about a little boy drowning in their pool on July 4? And he said no, there was no report.”

GPD confirmed with her that they had never received a report of the drowning. Her call would play a pivotal role in the investigation.

On Aug. 1, GPD held a press conference, Chief Stephen Ignacio announced that 27-year-old John Paul Sayama Charfauros was arrested on suspicion of murder, and aggravated assault both with a special allegation of deadly weapon used in a commission of a felony. 

Little TJ's mother, 30-year old Jonarie Marie Reyes Cruz was arrested on suspicion of child abuse, destroying evidence, and tampering with witness.

Ignacio provided the tragic details that led to the death of Little TJ. Details that TJ’s father, Thomas Jay Cruz and the rest of his family were hearing for the first time.

“Our blood was boiling just listening and sitting there. Hearing the details,” said Riana.

“The whole family, we were mad and pissed off. We were told to try to keep calm and let the law handle it,” added Nathan. 

The Camachos were livid hearing a plea deal could be in the works for Cruz.

“It doesn't matter if this is the first offense, she's his mother. She was there. She saw what that guy was doing and she let it continue,” Riana said. “She is as much responsible for his death as that guy is. Even though she didn't do it. She covered, she lied. She knowingly lied to everybody.”

Nathan shared more, saying, “I don’t think its right to give her less time. That little boy didn't even go to school yet. He didn't do much. You want to do 7 years and then come out and live the rest of your life. It's not fair. I hope whoever is in charge of the case at the AG's office, they really look at it and give her the full extent.”

Thomas Jay Cruz and his family thank the community for their continued prayers and support as they continue to seek 'Justice for TJ.'