Lawrence Capener Update: N.M. man who stabbed choir members thought victims were part of "Mason conspiracy"

(CBS/AP) ALBUQUERQUE, N.M - The 24-year-old man police said stabbed choir members in a New Mexico church Sunday reportedly told authorities he carried out the attack because he thought they were part of a "Mason conspiracy."

Lawrence Capener was sitting in church when he bolted from his pew, ran toward the singers and started stabbing them, officials said.

Adam Alvarez was among the victims. Police said Alvarez was the first to be attacked and Gerald Madrid, another victim, attempted to stop Capener by giving him a "bear hug." Madrid was stabbed in the back five times.

Capener reportedly told police that he was "99 percent sure Alvarez was a Mason" and he thought the victim was involved in a conspiracy.

He allegedly told investigators that the Masons are a group involved "in a conspiracy that is far more reaching that I could or would believe." He said he stabbed the victims that tried to stop him because he thought they were Masons as well, officials said.

Masons are a fraternal group involved in charity and other community activities, but many of their rituals and symbols are secret.

Rev. John Daniel reportedly said Capener's mother was "very active" in the parish and serves as a Eucharistic minister there.

Capener was charged with three counts of aggravated battery.  His bail was set to $250,000.

Complete coverage of the New Mexico church stabbing on Crimesider